Snow days are eagerly anticipated by young and old alike. Schools and some businesses close, giving families time together. Although there are plenty of fun things to do outside in the snow, like build snowmen, snow forts and have snowball fights, eventually everyone must come inside to warm up. This means finding things to do inside to keep everyone occupied.
One thing that can keep even small children occupied are arts and crafts. With the availability of online shopping, many people have cardboard boxes available that kids can turn into castles or forts. A paper lunch bag can become a puppet while empty toilet paper and paper towel tubes can become a telescope. It might be a good idea to grab a few models while doing storm prep shopping for older children. Teens might enjoy creating fun videos. Let them try their hand at stop-motion videos for a change of pace.
Use the couch cushions to create an obstacle course or turn the music up and have a dance party. Find interesting yoga for kids on your tablet or television. With the Olympics coming up in the next few weeks, create a mini-Olympics in your house with sock skating on hardwood floors or balloon volleyball.
Another popular thing to do on a snowy day is to make comfort foods. Stews, chili and soups are a great, hearty meal on a snowy day. Even small children can help in the kitchen, and it is a great way to teach measurement, counting and other types of math. Baking cookies or muffins is another great way to pass the time on a cold, snowy day.
Snowy days can also become family game day. Board games, card games and puzzles are not only fun, but they help build math, reading and problem-solving skills. Have children write a play and perform it for everyone. Create a scavenger hunt for children to “find” household items.
Of course, not every activity has to be high-energy. A snow day is a great day to relax, unwind and curl up with a warm blanket. Read books or choose a family movie to enjoy with fresh baked cookies and a mug of steaming hot chocolate.
The best way to be sure your children are not saying “I’m bored” five minutes after they come in from playing in the snow is to involve them in planning the day. The night before snow is predicted, talk about things they want to do when they come inside. Let them create an “agenda” for the day so they feel like they are included in making the decision.
Snow days can create some lasting memories with just a little planning. After throwing snowballs and building snowmen, it is the perfect time to reconnect, recharge and make everyone feel just a little warmer.
