Winter is officially here, which means the fun has been moved indoors. Here are my favorite activities to beat cabin fever.
Welcome to winter—the perfect time of year to try a craft and a snuggle up with a good book.
After a morning spent making snow angels, take in the winter wonderland from the comfort of the warm indoors. Pour a cup of hot cocoa, and try one of these seven creative activities as a cozy alternative to the wicked weather happening outside.
1. Construct A Paper City
Got some leftover paper towel rolls? A shoebox? Maybe an egg carton or two? Before you recycle––reuse them! Repurposing common household items gives kids a chance to be creative. Plus, they’ll get a kick out of turning a TP roll into a home. I love this clever idea from Today’s Parent!
2. Build A Fort
Throw a blanket over two chairs and you’ve got entertainment for hours. Building a cozy fort is a fun way to forget the cold. If you’ve got the space, help each child create their own “room” within the fort. That way, you’re all together, but every child feels a sense of responsibility in the construction process.
3. Make Indoor S’mores
Reminiscing about those summer bonfire nights? Me, too. I love these quick-bake mini s’mores from delish. It’s such a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. Let them assemble the ingredients while you handle the stove. Plus, if you’re looking for a healthy twist, you can opt for whole wheat waffles.
4. Spice Up Story Time
Books aren’t just for bedtime! Especially in the winter, cozying up with a fun book can be the best way to feel like you’re worlds away from the cold. Plus, according to the Children’s Bureau, reading to young children supports cognitive development, creativity and focus, and it improves language skills. Introduce a love of reading early on and snuggle up with one of these top books from Working Mother.
5. Craft No-Mess Ornaments
Almost time to decorate the tree? Get a head start and help the kids create ornaments to add it. All you need for these adorable snowflakes are craft sticks, glue, string, and buttons or sequins for decorations. Label the back of the ornament with the child’s name and year, and the parents will thank you for helping them capture another holiday season. A full list of directions on EasyPeasyandFun.com!
6. Host A Movie Night
Everyone loves curling up to watch a movie before bedtime, but my guess is you’ve never attended a movie night quite like this! Red Tricycle has tips to create your own red carpet affair. With gold decorations, real movie tickets and a create-your-own popcorn station, this isn’t an ordinary movie night. I love incorporating movie-themed games for an educational element that encourages young readers.
7. Become Scientists
Indoor science experiments are a great way to teach kids about new and interesting ideas. The Everything Kids’ Easy Science Experiments Book is full of educational activities that use household items. If you’re just looking for an opportunity to be creative, slime is always a crowd pleaser. Try out this kid-friendly recipe from The Kitchn.
