Here in Summit County, many people love to venture outside year-round. Being so close to nature is a major perk of living in this community, and there are so many options. That said, when the windchill is -10 degrees and/or you’ve got kids under age 5, your outdoor time might be limited to bluebird winter days. So…what can you do inside when you feel like everyone else is enjoying the great outdoors? In this blog post, we’ll share some creative activities that the whole family can enjoy. From crafting and making delicious treats to playing indoor games – we have something for everyone. So put away those screens, and get inspired with these fun activities that will make your family thrilled to stay indoors.
Fruit Skewers
Fruit skewers are an easy and fun way to get your family snacking, while simultaneously providing an opportunity to discuss colors, numbers, and patterns! All you need is some fruit (choose whatever is in season). Berries can go on skewers as they are, while apples and larger fruit (like pineapple will need to be cut into cubes or slices. Use wooden skewers, and assist smaller children with the pointy end. If you’re feeling really inspired, mix up your favorite dip or yogurt to enhance the experience. This is a great activity for all ages (even teenagers), and now you’ve prepared a snack for the day too. #winning
For more ways to use wooden skewers, check out this post from the FeelsLikeHomeBlog.
Card Games
Joking around with a family game of cards is also an easy way to pass the time on a cold winter’s day. Grab your favorite deck, deal out the cards, and get ready for a rousing game of Go Fish or Old Maid. Or go for something a bit more challenging like Rummy, Crazy 8’s, or even Poker (for the older ones in your family). Card games are fun, educational and can be great bonding time for everyone involved. If you’ve got kids under age 5, let them play on someone’s team, or have them make their own “set of cards” with some recycled cardboard pieces or paper. Little rusty on the rules? For a compilation of instructions on the classics and favorites, visit playingcarddecks.com
Winter Crafts
The possibilities are endless when it comes to winter-themed crafts. Set out some construction paper, glue, scissors and whatever other materials you have on hand (googly eyes? glitter? pipe cleaners?) and let the creativity flow! Kids can make something as simple as a snowman or winter tree with construction paper and markers, or something more complex like a snow globe, yarn ornaments and/or watercolor paintings. Get creative, and don’t be afraid to use recycled materials! You can also search our website for some great ideas.
Indoor Scavenger Hunt
Let your family’s competitive side out with an indoor scavenger hunt! This is a great way to get everyone up and moving, while still being indoors. Put together a list of items (the more creative the better) that everyone needs to find in the house – and make sure to include something for each member of your family. To make a more challenging game, create a clue for each object (rather than list of the objects). Work together or compete depending on ages, and when all of the objects have been located, celebrate with prizes! For scavenger hunt ideas and templates visit playpartyplan.