With winter snow ahead, parents - like me - often find themselves looking for ways to keep their little ones engaged and entertained during the chilly months. Playgrounds aren’t a great option, scooters and bikes are tucked away until spring, and although they’re still bound to ask, it’s not time to get the sprinkler out or play with water balloons. But winter does offer a unique set of opportunities for toddlers to explore, learn, and have fun in the great outdoors.
Check out these winter activity ideas well suited for even the smallest members of your family.
Snow Angels & Snowmen
Encourage your little ones to embrace winter’s magic by creating snow angels and building snowmen. This classic winter activity not only encourages physical activity but also sparks their creativity. Dress them in warm layers, grab some supplies, and let their imaginations run wild as they fashion their very own Olaf.
Winter Nature Scavenger Hunt
Transform a regular walk in the snow into a nature scavenger hunt. Create a list of winter-themed items for your toddler to spot, like pinecones, icicles, or animal footprints. This activity sharpens their observation skills and connects them with the wonders of the winter landscape around them.
Ice Painting
Turn the cold into a canvas by introducing your toddler to ice painting. First, fill ice trays with water, add a few drops of food coloring, and insert popsicle sticks before freezing. Once the colorful ice pops are frozen and ready, let your little artist create vibrant masterpieces on a large sheet of paper or even directly on the snow.
Snowball Sensory Bin
You know I love sensory bins, and this one’s no different. Enhance your toddler's sensory experience with a snowball sensory bin. Fill a large container with snow and hide small toys or objects inside, like these Antarctic Animal Figures from Safari Ltd! Equip your child with gloves and let them explore the bin, discovering hidden treasures as they play. This activity engages their sense of touch and encourages fine motor skills.
Read more: "25 Sensory Bin Theme Ideas"
Winter Storytime
When the cold weather keeps you indoors, cozy up with your toddler for a winter-themed storytime. Choose books that capture the magic of winter, featuring snowflakes, penguins, and winter adventures. This quiet activity fosters a love for reading and provides a warm, nurturing environment. Books like:
"No Two Alike" by Keith Baker
"Snow Kisses" by Judi Abbott
"Nanuk the Ice Bear" by Jeanette Winter
Indoor Obstacle Course
Create a winter-themed indoor obstacle course using pillows, blankets, and household items. Challenge your toddler to navigate through tunnels, jump over "snowdrifts," and crawl under makeshift igloos. This activity not only keeps them active but also hones their gross motor skills.
Hot Cocoa & Snack Creations
Warm up after outdoor play by inviting your toddler into the kitchen. Let them assist in making hot cocoa by adding marshmallows or stirring the drink. Consider having their help decorate snowflake-shaped cookies or making edible snowmen using marshmallows and pretzel sticks.
Once you get over the sheer coldness of it all (brrrrrr!), the winter months do offer a magical backdrop for toddlers to explore and play. And once you get going on these activities, you’ll hardly even notice the chilly temperatures!
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