When it’s just too cold to go outside, here are some screen-free ideas to encourage play (and use up some of that energy!) inside.

For Kiddos Ages 2-4:

1. Indoor Snowball Toss

To get kiddo up and moving, pretend snow is inside! Grab some soft white socks or crumpled to use as “snowballs.” With the “snowballs,” challenge kiddo to:

• Toss into a laundry basket
• Knock over plastic cups
• Practice taking turns

Not only will this help tire kiddo out, but you’ll also be working on coordination and sharing skills.

2. Arctic Animal Freeze Dance

Find your old favorite playlist and challenge kiddo to move like winter animals! During Freeze Dance, kiddo will dance like the animal you name– waddle like a penguin, stomp like a polar bear, etc. and then must FREEZE when the music stops. This will work on listening skills and body control, and is a joy to watch!

3. Winter Sensory Bin

For this activity, a few supplies are needed. First, fill a bin with cotton balls (“snow”), small cups and scoops, and toy animals. You could also use uncooked rice to serve as your ‘snow.’ Let kiddo scoop, pour, and explore their ‘winter wonderland’! This will work on fine motor skills.

4. Ice Play Tray

To get some snow day cold, you can grab some ice cubes, put them in a shallow pan, and provide some spoons and small cups. Kiddo can scoop and explore the melting ice. We highly recommend putting this in the bathtub or over a bath towel to save on mess cleanup!

5. Blanket Snow Cave

For this activity, gather all your fort-making supplies. You will drape blankets over chairs, couches, etc. to make a ‘snow cave.’ Kiddo can pretend to be a hibernating bear or bring in stuffed animals to create their own cave. This is a great place to read books or let kiddo play quietly.