Am I the only parent feeling like winter is a test?
We’re stuck inside, the weather is anything but ideal. Going outside means wrapping my son in the very warmest items we own and braving the freezing cold to feel some sunshine on our faces.
Here are some activities that will keep little ones entertained and content during these cold months and that don’t include screens.
To Clarify:
I don’t mean that parents who allow screen time for kiddos are any less wonderful than those who don’t.
Screens are there for us when we need them and when our kiddo needs a break, as well. But screens can be too simple an answer to this question, and I know other parents might be asking the same thing.
Idea 1: Obstacle Course
Move the coffee table out of the way, pull out the couch cushions, and create your kiddo’s very own personal obstacle course.
Make sure to cover up any sharp edges around the house and have the time of your life racing those little ones!
If you have more than one child in the house at the time, you can be the referee with the stop watch. Compare their times and of course the winner gets… something! It could be to pick the movie that night, what you have for dessert, or even what music is played next in the car. A prize is a great motivator to get kids engaged when they might be feeling a little reluctant.
Idea 2: Inside Picnic
The weather might be awful but that doesn’t mean you can’t recreate one of my favorite spring time activities inside the walls of your own home. Have a picnic!
This activity could take up quite a bit of time if you want to engage your child in the preparations. Have your little one help spread the peanut butter on the bread, help wash the berries, lay out the blanket, or even have them look around for different household items to imitate things that you’d see at the park.
Kids have such incredible imaginations. That vacuum in the corner could actually be a tree providing you with lovely shade during your family picnic.
Idea 3: Baking
Baking can be cheap, easy and a super interactive activity. Whether it’s cookies, brownies or cinnamon rolls, kid’s looovvveeeee treats.
You can even make it into a bigger activity by taking your little one to the store to pick out what you’ll make that day. Providing your kiddo with the chance to be in charge and make that decision can feel not just empowering. But, it can give your child a sense of control.
In my experience, being stuck inside with my son can lead to lots of….. rules. No, you can’t play with that. It’s not a toy. No, you can’t watch tv now, you already finished your show for the morning, etc.
By providing specific situations that allow him to feel in control, I notice fewer tantrums arising.
Idea 4: Sensory Bins
Especially for the little little’s, sensory bins can be so much fun! You don’t need a special table or fancy sensory sand. You can use a mixing bowl, some flour, and a few hot wheels or other little toys to dig out.
You may want to lay down a towel or sheet to protect your carpet. But something just a little bit messy on purpose can be the most exciting thing your kiddo’s done this week!
Idea 5: Hire them
This suggestion may sound crazy and I’m not saying you have to pay them with USD. However, for those little ones who can’t seem to calm down, it can be beneficial to harness that energy into an activity that benefits you, too!
Helping with chores around the house for allowance, extra tv time or to pick what's for dinner or dessert can be a great way to motivate and wear out those kiddos. It can be more difficult with the tiniest members of the family, but you can find different tasks for your child to help with around the house.
My son’s favorite is to pull the clothes out of the dryer and into the basket. He also is pretty good with rinsing off the clean dishes for me. We make the bed, vacuum, scrub the table and, of course, (say it with me!) Pick. Up. The. Toys!
Having a reward or payment for these tasks keeps them engaged and excited.
Tackle the Challenge
Cold and grey winter days don’t have to be stressful. Being stuck inside is a challenge not just for us, but our babies, too. We can only do our best to help ourselves by helping them have fun!
With these ideas and your own, having fun could be the best way to not just get through the day but actually enjoy it, too.
Sophie Hamel is a freelance writer and works in advocacy for victims of interpersonal violence. Her son is two-and-a-half years old.
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