Between the cumulative headaches of virtual schooling while working, kids sick of being cooped up after almost an entire year stuck inside, and the lack of sunlight, winter is enough to drive even the most patient parent to the brink.
Don’t worry — here are some winter family activities that will not only be free of screens, they'll also tire your kids out. And maybe, they’ll even have fun and learn something.
CDC holiday recommendations: winter safety tips
Snow play, winter sports for kids, and safe outdoor winter activities kids will love
Of course, sometimes, your kids just need to go outside for some winter family fun. Here are some activities that might require a bit of adjustment in terms of wearing masks and maintaining proper social distance — but in general, should be OK for your family to enjoy.
5. Camp in your backyard
As long as you have weather-appropriate gear, take advantage of your own backyard and set up camp for your kids. Don’t want to pitch a tent in the cold? “We make s’mores in the backyard over the fire pit,” mom of two Elizabeth Chan told us. The best part? No camping fees.
6. Play in the snow
One of the main benefits of living somewhere with snow is all the snow-related activities your kids can do. Build a snowman, collect icicles, build a snow fort, or start a snowball fight. The possibilities are endless. “We will sled and snowboard in the pasture,” shared farmer Michelle Newby, “and do ‘sleigh rides’ using the four-wheeler to pull the kids on sleds.”
7. Winter sports
Do you have access to an outdoor ice rink or skiing? Call ahead to make an appointment and to familiarize yourself with the facility's COVID-19 safety practices — especially for any equipment you may need to rent for your children.
8. Winter drive-thru: check out winter lights displays
Look up the local neighborhoods or zoos with drive-thru light installations. Pack your car with the kids, hot drinks, blankets, and holiday music and enjoy the pretty sights in the warmth of your vehicle.
9. Plant a garden
As long as the ground isn’t frozen, you can plant vegetables like onions, shallots, peas, asparagus, and spinach with your children. Or, if you’re more of a flower person, you can plant flowers that bloom in winter such as calendulas, pansies, and winter jasmine.
