Exciting Winter Activities for Kids

As the days get shorter, the temperature starts to cool, and the exciting thought of snow blanketing the ground arises, children are invited to explore a world of imagination and adventure. Winter brings both the magic of cosy indoor adventures and the thrill of exciting outdoor play. The frosty months become a playground ripe with opportunities, sparking excitement and enriching experiences. 

Let’s delve into some exciting winter activities perfect for children, ranging from thrilling escapades in the snow to cosy, creative indoor projects. 

Outdoor Adventures for Cold Days

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, the exciting possibility of snow blanketing the ground invites children to explore a world of imagination and adventure. Providing your kids the chance to explore the great outdoors, even on cold days, fosters resilience and creativity. Always ensure they are dressed in warm, waterproof clothing and keep outings short to keep them comfortable and safe. 

Building Snow Forts and Igloos

Children can use packed snow to construct walls and roofs, creating cool winter hideaways. This activity fuels imaginative play and promotes teamwork and problem-solving skills. Parents should always supervise by guiding the construction process and offering tips on stability and structure. 

Top tip: Kids can recreate this experience in areas without snow using sand and leaves outside, or blankets and pillows indoors.

Sledging Fun

Sledging is a timeless winter activity that invites families to enjoy snow-covered hills with swift descents and joyful laughter. Sledging encourages physical exercise and taking turns. Remember, choosing safe locations and supervising children while sledging is essential. Check out more physical activities to keep kids moving.

Top tip: Adventurous families can seek out sandy dunes or grassy hills in snowless regions.

Winter Nature Scavenger Hunts

Nature activities like scavenger hunts transform the stark beauty of winter into a captivating, educational experience for children. Investigate tree bark to see where insects might hide, marvel at the icy puddles and frosty branches, or observe winter wildlife. Kids can learn about hibernation and migration patterns, enhancing their understanding of basic biology and seasonal changes.

Kite Flying on Clear Days

Kite flying doesn’t have to wait for spring; it can be a delightful winter activity on breezy days. The exhilarating feeling of launching a colourful kite into the blue winter sky brings joy and excitement to children. Wear gloves to keep little hands warm and ensure children are supervised for safety. 

Browse our full outdoor toys collection for everything you need to bring these activities to life.

Cosy Indoor Projects

When it’s too chilly to venture outside, you can transform your living room into a hub of creativity and wonder. These projects entertain and support childhood development by fostering creativity, problem-solving, and fine motor skills. Captivate kids’ imaginations and keep them busy during the colder months with these creative activities.

Making Snow Globes and Other Winter Crafts

Making snow globes using empty jars, water, glitter, and small toys can turn everyday household items into enchanting winter decorations. This activity is not only engaging and straightforward but also results in a keepsake that captures the festive spirit. 

Top tip: Why not try other winter-themed crafts, like making paper snowflakes and Christmas cards? Browse our arts and crafts supplies for everything you need to get creative.

Crafting with Salt Dough

With simple ingredients in your pantry, children can create festive Christmas ornaments, which can be fun to make and cherish as keepsakes. For dough that can be reused and endlessly entertaining, take a look at our range of Play-Doh sets.

Designing Indoor Obstacle Courses

Families can transform their living spaces into dynamic playgrounds by creating obstacle courses using household items like chairs and blankets. For added fun, incorporate festive elements like holiday lights or music. These courses promote physical activity and encourage problem-solving as kids figure out how to navigate the challenges strategically. For more ideas, take a look at our top 5 indoor activities for kids.

Discovering Ice Art Creations

Kids can build vibrant structures and sculptures by freezing water mixed with food colouring in ice cube trays. This interactive activity serves as a fun arts and crafts project and a lesson in the properties of water and colour blending. Explore more creative ideas for kids.

Top tip: Let colourful ice melt into separate trays and let little ones use it as watercolour paint on paper to create artistic masterpieces.

Fishy Phonics & Snowman Says

This engaging game involves hiding small fish cards, each marked with different letter sounds, in a tray filled with slime or similar material. As kids search and uncover these fish, they actively associate letters with their corresponding sounds, making this both a fun and educational activity. Another fun game for little ones is ‘Snowman Says’, a fun wintery twist on the popular childhood game, ‘Simon Says’. 

Top tip: Other games for older children could include bingo, charades and family trivia nights. Check out our full range of games and puzzles.

Cosy Movie Night

Turn those chilly nights into unforgettable memories by hosting a movie night at home. Transform your living room into a cosy haven with your child’s favourite films and snacks, creating a cinema-like experience right at home. Encourage creativity by having the little ones create tickets for the show, making them feel involved and excited. Discover more fun family activities.

Baking and Decorating Winter Treats

Baking and decorating winter treats is a festive tradition that invites families into the heart of the kitchen. Crafting winter-themed baked goods, such as gingerbread, enriches the holiday spirit while introducing children to the joys of cooking. Afternoon teas with hot chocolate and sandwiches complement these baking sessions perfectly. 

Creating Lifelong Winter Memories

Engaging children in winter-themed activities is a fantastic way to create magical and lasting memories. Whether it’s the rush of sledging down frosty hills or the serene satisfaction of crafting and baking at home, there is a festive array of winter wonders tailored for young explorers. 

Discover more fun and creative activities for kids. And if you’re looking for even more thrilling winter activities? Shop our curated range of toys by age and make every moment unforgettable for your little one!

Read our disclaimers