Winter Play Ideas for Kids of All Ages
by Emilia Orviss
View Bio
Emilia is a Play Champion at the Good Play Guide, an independent, expert organisation, dedicated to ensuring every child can develop the skills they need to thrive during a happy healthy childhood. Emilia has over seven years experience of working with children in Early Years education, and many years previously in publishing. She is passionate about play and knows how deeply important it is for a child's development.
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Play is a versatile and enjoyable way to unwind, destress and find joy throughout the year. Play offers a healthy balance ensuring that everyone takes time for self-care and enjoyment. The key is finding fun activities and adapting them to the changing seasons. Activities like outdoor ice skating and star gazing to indoor craft projects and movie marathons, provide opportunities for families to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. No matter the season - there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the magic of play!
The winter season brings a magical touch to outdoor play, offering a unique set of activities that captivate both children and adults alike. Embrace the chilly weather and discover the joy of winter play with these exciting ideas.
SNOW SCULPTURE CHALLENGE
Turn your backyard into a winter wonderland by organizing a snow sculpture challenge. Encourage creativity by providing various tools for sculpting, from traditional snowman accessories to cookie cutters for intricate designs. This activity not only sparks imagination but also promotes teamwork as family members collaborate to create stunning snow sculptures.
ICE SKATING ADVENTURE
Embrace the frozen beauty of winter by taking a trip to a local ice-skating rink. Whether your family members are seasoned skaters or beginners, gliding across the ice is a fantastic way to enjoy the crisp winter air. Consider organizing a friendly skating competition or practicing synchronized routines for an added element of fun.
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WINTER NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT
Explore the winter landscape with a nature scavenger hunt. Create a list of winter-specific items, such as pinecones, icicles, or animal tracks, and challenge your family to find them during a nature walk. This activity not only promotes outdoor exploration but also teaches children about the unique features of winter ecosystems.
COZY INDOOR MOVIE MARATHON
When the weather becomes too chilly, bring the fun indoors with a cozy movie marathon. Choose a selection of winter-themed films, make some hot cocoa, and create a snug movie-watching space with blankets and pillows. This activity provides a perfect opportunity for quality family time while enjoying the warmth of your home.
DIY WINTER BIRD FEEDERS
Help local wildlife endure the winter by crafting DIY bird feeders. Use materials like pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseed to create tasty treats for feathered friends. Hang the feeders in your backyard and watch as birds visit, adding a touch of nature to your winter days.
SNOWBALL FIGHT EXTRAVAGANZA
Embrace the playful side of winter with a friendly snowball fight. Equip yourselves with warm layers and head outdoors for a spirited battle. Build snow forts for added excitement and strategize with your team to claim victory in this classic winter activity.
WINTER STARGAZING NIGHT
Bundle up in warm layers and head outside for a magical winter stargazing night. Clear winter skies often offer a breathtaking view of stars and constellations. Bring out blankets and hot beverages and spend time identifying different celestial objects. Consider using a stargazing app to enhance the experience and learn more about the night sky.
INDOOR DIY WINTER CRAFTS
Get creative indoors with a series of DIY winter crafts. From making paper snowflakes to creating winter-themed decorations, there are countless craft projects to explore. Gather art supplies, play festive music, and spend a cozy afternoon crafting together. This not only provides an outlet for creativity but also results in handmade winter decorations for your home.
WINTER BOTANICAL GARDEN VISIT
Explore the beauty of winter at a local botanical garden. Many gardens transform into enchanting winter landscapes with unique plants and decorations. Take a stroll through the winter-themed displays, enjoy the seasonal flora, and learn about the different plant adaptations during the colder months. This outing provides a serene and educational experience for the whole family.
FROZEN BUBBLE FUN
Take advantage of the chilly temperatures by experimenting with frozen bubbles. Mix up a bubble solution (water, dish soap, and a bit of sugar), grab a bubble wand, and head outside on a cold day. Blow bubbles and watch as they freeze in the frigid air, creating delicate and mesmerizing ice formations. It’s a simple yet enchanting activity that combines science and winter magic, providing a unique and visually stunning experience for both kids and adults alike.
Embrace the winter wonder and create lasting memories with these delightful play ideas. From outdoor adventures to cozy indoor activities, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the magic of winter with your loved ones.