Winter is such a magical season! Even though it’s cold outside, there are so many exciting activities that kids can enjoy. As someone who works closely with children, I see firsthand the joy and excitement that winter activities bring to their lives. Today, I want to share with you some of the best and most fun winter activities that you can do with your kids. These activities are perfect for keeping them entertained and active, whether they are neurotypical or neurodivergent.
Table of Contents
1. Build a Snowman
Building a snowman is a classic winter activity that never gets old. It’s a great way to get kids outside and moving, and it sparks their creativity. You can gather accessories like scarves, hats, and buttons to dress up your snowman. Don’t forget the carrot for the nose! This activity is perfect for all ages and abilities. For neurodivergent kids, the sensory experience of touching and shaping the snow can be very soothing.
2. Ice Skating
Ice skating is a wonderful way to enjoy the winter weather and get some exercise. Many local rinks offer special sessions for young kids or those who need a little extra help. For example, some rinks have “learn to skate” programs that are perfect for beginners. Skating helps improve balance and coordination, making it an excellent activity for all children.
See on Instagram
3. Outdoor Picnic
Who says picnics are only for summer? Bundle up and enjoy an outdoor winter picnic. Pack warm foods like soup in a thermos, hot chocolate, and sandwiches. Find a nice spot in the park and lay down a blanket. This can be a fun and different way to enjoy a meal outside. Kids will love the novelty of having a picnic in the snow.
4. Paint Snow
Painting snow is a fun and creative activity. Fill spray bottles with water and a few drops of food coloring. Then, let your kids spray the snow to create colorful masterpieces. This activity is great for all ages and allows kids to express their creativity. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy the snow without getting too cold.
5. Create a Volcano
Bring science to life with a winter volcano. This activity involves creating a small volcano out of snow and using baking soda and vinegar to make it erupt. It’s a fun way to teach kids about chemical reactions and enjoy the outdoors at the same time. This activity is especially engaging for kids with learning differences who enjoy hands-on experiments.
Read more: ADHD Activities for Kids in Winter (POST-COVID)
6. Indoor Obstacle Course
When it’s too cold to go outside, create an indoor obstacle course. Use pillows, blankets, and furniture to create different challenges. This can include crawling under tables, jumping over cushions, and balancing on taped lines. It’s a great way to keep kids active and entertained indoors. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the difficulty to suit your child’s needs.
7. Snowball Fight
A snowball fight is a classic and fun way to play in the snow. Make sure everyone understands the rules and plays safely. This activity is perfect for kids who enjoy physical play and can help them burn off some energy. It’s also a great way to encourage teamwork and strategy.
8. Winter Scavenger Hunt
Create a winter scavenger hunt in your backyard or a local park. Make a list of winter-related items for the kids to find, such as pinecones, animal tracks, and specific types of leaves. This activity helps kids explore nature and learn more about the winter environment. It’s also a fun way to spend time outside, even on colder days.
9. Winter Sensory Bag
A winter sensory bag is a fantastic activity for neurodivergent kids. Fill a large resealable bag with hair gel, glitter, and small plastic snowflakes. Seal the bag and let kids squish and move the contents around. This activity is great for sensory exploration and can be very calming.
10. Bake Winter Treats
Baking is a wonderful indoor activity that kids love. Try making winter-themed treats like snowflake cookies or hot chocolate. This is a great way to spend time together and teach kids some basic cooking skills. Plus, they get to enjoy delicious treats at the end!
Goally | Best Videos to Teach Life Skills
Give your kid an independent future. Goally has 100+ video classes teaching life skills like “How to Choose a Restaurant,” “How to Interrupt Politely,” and “How to Get Ready for School.”
Goally takes kids on an adventure that includes interactive practice and checkpoints along the way! No web browsers, YouTube, or social media.
These are just a few ideas to get you started on a fun-filled winter with your kids. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the time together and create lasting memories. Winter offers a unique opportunity to explore new activities and bond with your children. Whether you’re building a snowman or having a winter picnic, these activities are sure to bring joy and laughter to your family.
Resources:
- Verywell Family
- Parents
- CDC – Child Development
FAQs about Fun Winter Activities
What are some fun winter activities for kids?
Building a snowman, ice skating, and having a snowball fight are great winter activities that keep kids active and entertained. Indoor activities like baking winter treats or creating an indoor obstacle course are also fun options.
How can I keep my child entertained indoors during winter?
You can set up an indoor obstacle course, have a winter-themed movie night, or bake winter treats together. These activities are perfect for keeping kids engaged and active without needing to go outside.
What are some safe winter activities for neurodivergent kids?
Winter sensory bags and painting snow are excellent activities for neurodivergent kids, providing both sensory stimulation and creative fun. Additionally, indoor obstacle courses can be customized to suit their specific needs and preferences.
How do I plan an outdoor winter scavenger hunt?
Create a list of winter-themed items for your kids to find, such as pinecones, animal tracks, and different types of leaves. This activity encourages outdoor exploration and learning about the winter environment.
What are some creative ways to play in the snow?
Besides building a snowman, you can paint the snow with colored water or create a snow volcano using baking soda and vinegar. These activities add a fun twist to traditional snow play and are educational too.
This post was originally published on 12/20/2022. It was updated on 06/06/2024.
Goally
We help parents teach their kids life skills, like doing bedtime and morning independently. Backed by science, we incorporate evidence-based practices and expert-informed designs in all of our apps and content.
