Even if you’re accustomed to the winter conditions, catching cabin fever is quite common for most people. And for children without an outlet, their built up energy can turn into negative habits like jumping on the furniture or fighting with siblings.
It can be hard to keep them interested and satisfied. So, here are some great winter indoor activities to keep your children busy during the winter season.
Household Crafts
You don’t need to break the bank to provide a creative outlet for the kids. In fact, items that are typically discarded can be turned into beautiful works of art.
The paper roll dragon craft created by Debbie Chapman for instance, uses a toilet paper roll to make, while old cardboard egg cartons can be turned into fun animal characters with the help of a little paint. Of course, you don’t have to stop there- challenge your kids to see what they can make with commonly discarded items. Not only will they learn about recycling, but they’ll be engaged and can put their built up energy into creating.
Become a Science Teacher
Even when they’re not at school they can still be learning, especially when it comes to science.
In fact, there are a variety of kid friendly science projects and experiments you can do with your kids. They’ll love to see the scientific reaction of the experiment and you’ll be happy knowing they’re learning.
Additionally, many of these experiments use common household items such as, vinegar and baking soda. So, the next time your kids are bit antsy show them something interesting like the elephant toothpaste or magnetic slime experiment.
Provide Exercise
The reason why your children, and even yourself, start to feel a bit “stir crazy” this time of year is because many of us are inactive and stuck indoors all winter long. Children have a lot of energy and when they can’t release it, can become frustrated and take their energy out in a negative way.
The best option is to let your children play outdoors, sled, and have a great time in the snow. Of course, this isn’t always the option if there’s a blizzard outside. So, bring the fun inside. Make space in an area and encourage the kids to get active with you. Turn on some music and turn the living room into a temporary dance floor. Blow up some cheap party balloons and tap them around in the air- balloons are soft and light, so you won’t have to worry about them damaging valuables or causing injuries.
Additionally, if you’re trying to get into shape, invite your children to work out with you. Of course, leave the hour run or weight lifting session to yourself, but something like meditative stretching and yoga can help younger minds cope with cabin fever or stress they may be feeling this time of year.
Visit the Library
Visiting the public library is wonderful winter indoor activity and often there are a variety of programs for all to enjoy. The best part? It’s all free to all community members and their families.
Additionally, if you’re worried about your child’s screen time on their tech or losing power during a storm, the library is a great place to stock up on traditional media that can keep your children occupied for hours no matter the weather.
Besides books and magazines, many libraries also provide games, puzzles, and other education resources for young minds to enjoy. So, before a big snow storm hits, take a trip to your local library with the kids. It’s a great way to get them out of the house and keep them busy indoors.
Educational Tech
If your child loves to be on their tablet or computer, make sure they’re getting good use of it. As a parent it can be difficult to understand what your child is being exposed to online. However, there are plenty of free tools out there that foster intellectual growth.
Khan Academy for example, is actually a great resource for all ages. In fact, Khan Academy offers courses in a variety of subjects like math, arts, language, and coding. Courses are structured by grade and skill level, so anyone of any skill set can follow along. Additionally, as a parent, you can gain access to your child’s progress and see what they’re doing on the website.
Biblionasium is another great free resource for children, especially those who are finicky about reading or struggle in doing so. Children are motivated by other peers online through reading challenges, book recommendations, and reading logs. Additionally, similar to Khan Academy, parents also gain access to their child’s progress. So, the next time your children want to play on the computer or your smartphone, make it worth their while and provide them with educational fun.
Young minds need to stay active all year round- don’t fret if your children get a bit stir crazy this winter, just give them a few fun winter indoor activities to look forward to.
What do you do to keep your family busy in the winter? Share your activities in the comments below!
