Enjoying the Wintertime with the Kiddos

Introduction

Outdoor activities provide an excellent way to keep the little ones’ fingers off their gamepads and other electronic devices, but what about during the winter? Sure, the weather might be a bit cold outside, but this doesn’t mean you can’t keep the kids active. Here’s a quick look at a few activities you and your kids can take part in even when the temps dip well below freezing. 

Build a snow sculpture

When the snow starts piling up outside, everyone wants to slip outside and build a snowman. Why not take things to the next level and build other types of snow sculptures? Ask your kiddos what their favorite animals are and have them do their best to sculpt these animals out of snow. You might have to help them out a bit, and if you find there’s no way to make a lion out of snow, then you can always resort to a good old-fashioned snowball fight.  

Put on some warm clothes and look at the night sky

Taking in the beauty of the winter night sky is quite possible as long as you and the kiddos wear the right attire. Find an open space out in your yard and get out a telescope. Ask the kids if they can identify or find certain constellations. In between finding each constellation, make sure to warm up with a cup of hot cocoa.  

Go for a sled ride

Who doesn’t love going sledding? Even small hills make for lots of fun when there’s enough snow on the ground. Just make sure to be safe, and if you go downhills that are very steep, it’s probably best to have the kids wear a helmet. And make sure you and the rest of the family are bundled up warmly with gloves, jackets, long johns, and toboggans. And don’t forget if you go for a ride on a snowmobile, then a helmet is a must. And to help ensure your snowmobile stays in the best shape possible, make sure to use a snowmobile trailering cover. 

Hit up a nearby ski resort

No matter where you live, even if out in the desert, there’s a good chance that there’s a nearby ski resort within only a couple of hour’s drive. You and the kids can spend the entire day hitting the slopes, or if you want, you can even use your skiing endeavors as a good excuse for slipping away for a weekend vacation. 

Shopping for needy families

When it comes to giving back to the community during the wintertime, there’s no better way than by making a needy child’s dreams come true on Christmas morning. You and the kids can spend the day shopping for one or more families who can’t give their kids presents on Christmas. The best way to locate such families is by contacting local churches. You can give your gifts in person, or if you prefer, you can remain anonymous. 

The Takeaway

Just because it’s winter, that’s no excuse for hibernating in your home. There’s plenty of activities to do outdoors. But then again, if you do find yourself staying warm and cozy by the fireplace, don’t forget to listen to Christmas carols and get lost in the classic poem of Twas the Night Before Christmas.