Winter has a sneaky way of trapping kids indoors with way too much energy and not nearly enough space to use it. When snow days, icy sidewalks, or winter germs keep families inside, boredom can strike fast. The good news? With a little creativity (and very little prep), indoor time can turn into some of the most fun — and memorable — parts of winter.
If you’re staring down a long afternoon and hearing the dreaded words “I’m bored,” here are plenty of kid-approved ideas to help the hours fly by.
Game Time to the Rescue
Board games and card games are a winter staple for a reason. For younger kids, games like Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders, Guess Who, Uno, and Trouble are easy wins. Older kids might enjoy Monopoly, Clue, Scrabble, or Apples to Apples.
Don’t forget about puzzles — jigsaw puzzles, logic puzzles, or even word searches can be worked on over multiple days, giving kids something to return to again and again.
Family Movie Days (or Mini Film Festivals)
Winter is prime time for movie marathons. Let kids help choose a theme — animated favorites, superheroes, Disney classics, or a full movie series — and make it an event. Spread blankets on the floor, pop popcorn, and declare a pajama-only dress code.
To stretch it out, add fun extras like movie tickets made from paper, snack “concessions,” or a short discussion afterward about favorite scenes.
Crafts, Crafts, and More Crafts
You don’t need fancy supplies to keep kids crafting for hours. Construction paper, markers, glue, tape, and scissors can go a long way. Try:
– Paper snowflakes and winter scenes
– Homemade cards for friends or grandparents
– Paint-by-number or coloring books
– Friendship bracelets or bead necklaces
– DIY puppets made from socks or paper bags
Many crafts double as fridge art — or keepsakes you’ll be glad you saved later.
Reading (Without Complaints)
Cozy winter days are perfect for reading time. Younger kids may enjoy being read to, while older kids can dive into chapter books, graphic novels, or comic collections. Create a reading nook with pillows and blankets to make it extra inviting.
Audiobooks are another great option, especially for reluctant readers or kids who want to relax while listening.
Kid-Friendly Cooking & Baking
The kitchen can become a winter activity hub. Let kids help measure ingredients, stir batter, or decorate cookies and cupcakes. Simple projects like mini pizzas, no-bake treats, or homemade trail mix are easy and fun.
Bonus: cooking builds math skills, reading skills, and confidence — and the house smells amazing when you’re done.
Burn Off That Energy (Indoors!)
When kids can’t run outside, bring the movement indoors. Ideas include:
– Dance parties with favorite songs
– Kids’ yoga or movement videos
– Balloon volleyball or keep-the-ball-off-the-floor games
– A simple obstacle course using pillows, chairs, and blankets
Even short bursts of movement can help reset moods and improve focus.
Quiet-Time Activities for Slower Moments
Not every activity needs to be loud or high-energy. Coloring books, sticker books, Lego builds, Play-Doh, magnet tiles, and brain teasers are perfect for calmer parts of the day — or when parents need a breather.
Rotating toys and activities can also make old favorites feel brand new.
Learn Something New
Winter is a great time for kids to explore new interests. Try simple science experiments, beginner coding games, drawing tutorials, magic tricks, or learning a few words in a new language. Many free resources and videos are available online to guide kids step by step.
Embrace the Cozy Moments
Some of the best winter memories come from slowing down. Build a blanket fort, sip hot chocolate, read stories together, or spend an afternoon playing pretend. Not every moment needs to be scheduled to be meaningful.
When winter weather keeps kids indoors, mixing active play with quiet time can make the days feel balanced and manageable. Let kids help choose activities, lower the pressure to be productive, and remember — these cozy, chaotic winter days often turn into the memories everyone laughs about later.
I also want to take a moment to congratulate ‘Little’ Jimmy and Lauren on their new addition. Beau is adorable and it’s amazing to see the Webb family expanding! I remember when Jimmy was still little enough for the activities above, so it’s pretty wild that he’s starting his own family. I know him and Lauren will be amazing parents!
