You don’t have to hibernate during the winter with your toddler in tow! With these winter season activities, you and your little one can enjoy the season, too! It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind of work and errands that it’s easy to forget that there are fun things you can do on days when the weather isn’t cooperating. Try some of these fun activities the next time you can’t get outside because of snow or ice! You and your little one will have so much fun that you won’t even notice the gray skies.
Go Sledding
Sledding is a great way for kids and parents alike to enjoy winter. Pushing your little one down a snowy hillside is sure to make you and your child laugh, but can also be great exercise. And if it’s snowing outside, who doesn’t want an excuse to run around in it? To have fun with your little one, take her sledding at least once. Kids love being out in nature—even if they don’t realize that it’s called that yet—and getting some fresh air always brings smiles and giggles all around.
Have Fun Indoors
Why is it so hard to find fun things for little ones and toddlers to do in winter? Maybe we’re suffering from a bit of cabin fever and looking at our long list of obligations during these cold months. The reality is, we don’t have a ton of time, but there are plenty of activities you can do with your little one that are quick and inexpensive. You just need a few items on hand (and maybe some creative ideas) and you’ll be able to make the most out of your playtime in no time. Grab some washable finger paints and paint together, or grab a few jars of Play-doh and create some objects (keeping a careful eye that your little one doesn’t put it in their mouth), play dress up, or build a fort and watch a movie from inside. It doesn’t take much to enjoy the indoors especially when it makes you want to cuddle all day.
Go Ice Skating
If you live in a place that gets cold during winter and you think your little one is old enough to understand instructions then you should try ice skating. You and your little one can have fun gliding around on ice, trying to keep your balance. If you don’t have skates of your own, ask if a friend has some that you can borrow. At first it might be hard for your toddler to get used to putting her feet in skates and standing up – but eventually she will pick it up. There will be ice skating walkers for them to hold on to in order to keep them from falling. The best part? She’ll feel like she’s taking after mama or papa!
Snowball Fight
For toddlers and parents alike, there’s something special about a snowball fight. Remember playing in snowbanks as a kid? Or seeing who could build a snowball to throw at their friends? Building and throwing snowballs is a family activity that brings out your child’s competitive spirit while also helping them develop fine motor skills, work on teamwork, and have some good old-fashioned fun outside. Plus, with all of those warm winter days in front of you, you can have snowball fights any time. And when you’re done, you can come in and enjoy a warm lunch like a favorite bowl of soup, especially with these best bowls for toddlers, you don’t have to worry about them spilling or making much of a mess. Try making some homemade applesauce for dessert straight out of the saucepan, that’s sure to be a favorite with your little one.
Bundle Up And Go Outside
Cold weather doesn’t mean you need to stay indoors with your little one. If your baby isn’t old enough to do the above activities, bundle up and get outside with your tot. A great way to keep baby warm is to wear an extra layer of clothing, such as cotton onesies from The Spunky Stork underneath a thick onesie. Be sure to also dress him in a heavy waterproof coat. A simple walk around your neighborhood can be a nice change of pace from being indoors all day. Be sure to prepare your baby stroller with a waterproof cover and an extra blanket in case it starts to snow, rain, or get extra windy to keep your little one warm and dry while on your stroll.
Winter can be a tough time of year for little ones who are just learning how to walk. They might find that it’s hard for them to go out in freezing cold temperatures or that they have trouble maneuvering on icy surfaces. Keeping your baby safe during winter is essential, but there are also ways you can make sure that they still enjoy their time outside in the snow and cold while they learn how to move around. Be sure to keep yourself safe and warm with the proper attire. If you need some fresh ideas on how to dress for the winter season approaching, this cold weather dressing guide can give you a few new tips.