Winter is here for at least a few more weeks, so why not make the best of it!
Show the kids how much fun it can be whether you're stuck inside or exploring someplace new together.
1. Put their blanket in the dryer right before bed so it will be toasty warm.
Works great with scarves, mittens and socks too before you head outside to play.
2. Try a New Drink
Add flavored syrup (such as vanilla and almond), cinnamon or butterscotch chips to a warm glass of milk.
3. Teach Kids to make Paper Snowflakes or Heart Garland.
4. Have an 'Island Day'!
Put on some shorts & t-shirts and celebrate island-style complete with snacks, books and a movie! For some bonus fun, find an indoor pool and take them swimming too!
5. Try Some Winter Science
If it's below freezing, grab a cup of water and head outside to see how quickly water freezes. If it's really cold, toss the water in the air to see if it will freeze before it hits the ground.
6. Go Explore a Local Museum for the Afternoon.
Look for a new place you haven't yet visited for some extra adventure!
7. Make S'mores in the Microwave!
Place some mini-marshmallows and chocolate chips on half a graham cracker. Microwave for 12 - 18 seconds (watch for marshmallows to puff up) and then top with the other half of graham cracker.
8. Build a Pillow Fort
Grab all the pillows in the house and build a fort in the living room. Grab a flashlight and read a book together.
9. Bake Something Fun Together
Make some favorite cookies or try a new recipe like a Baked Alaska. You can also learn some science by making ice cream sodas too!
10. Stargaze on a Clear Evening
The stars can be viewed earlier in the evening and you'll see different constellations than during the summer months.
11. Help Kids 'wish in' a Snowday!
Yes, it may ruin your plans but kids LIVE for snowdays. Try a few of these myths:
- Place a teaspoon on your windowsill before bed.
- Flush an ice cube down the toilet.
- Have the kids put on their pj's and dance around the room.
12. Make Your Own Sledding Hill
Grab a few shovels and make the biggest sledding hill you can right in your yard! (Also good exercise!)
13. If you have any snow, freeze a few snowballs to save for a summer.
14. Make a bird feeder
Then sit at the window and watch the birds pig out!
15. Make up a secret code with them and write each other notes.
16. Celebrate 'Read in the Bathtub' Day on Feb. 9th.
17. Make teeny, tiny Snowmen
Use mini-carrotts for the nose and make them do funny things (like swing).
18. Have a Tea-tasting Party
Break out the good china! Try flavored teas such as vanilla, almond, cinnamon, peppermint or chai.
19. Take a Winter Hike
Go for a walk on the trails and see if you can spy any animals.
20. February 10th is Umbrella Day
Take a walk with the umbrella, just because...
21. Be a Shutterbug
Take a camera outside and capture some 'snow shadow' photos - see how artistic your kids can be!
22. February 13th is Get a Different Name Day
Ask the kids to rename themselves and then call them by their new name all day.
23. Be 'in the know' about Holiday Specials
- Two Peanuts' Valentine Specials will show on Feb. 9th at 8 p.m. est
- PBS Kids will host their Valentine's special episodes on Feb. 10th
- Disney Jr. will premiere a new Doc McStuffins valentine's show on Feb. 1st, and Handy Manny has a Valentine's party on Feb. 14th
24. Make an Ice Wreath!
Visit The Artful Parent for details on how to create one!
25. Celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day on Feb. 17th
Show them how to do something nice for someone (hold open a door, put money in a parking meter, shovel a neighbors walkway).
26. Bundle up and Head to the Playground
You'll probably have the place all to yourself. Swing and slide in the snow if you have too.
27. Go Ice-skating Together
28. Stay Cozy on the Run
Keep a blanket in the car so they can cuddle up going to/from school. And if you're running errands, make some hot cocoa to take with you (check the temperature before you pour it into their travel cups).
29. Build a Box Fort
Create their own private reading nook for the day by decorating a large box and filling it with pillows & books!
What do you do for fun in the winter?
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