Winter break is looming, and while the holidays are magical, the sheer volume of time stretching out in front of you can be… terrifying. You’ve got tiny humans buzzing with excitement (and sugar) and you’re fresh out of ways to entertain them. I’ve been there. More times than I can count.
After about day three, the novelty of new toys wears off and you’re left hearing the dreaded, “I’m boooored.” So, to save your sanity (and mine), I’ve put together a list of 20 winter break activities that are actually doable. No crazy expensive supplies or Pinterest-fails allowed. Just good, old-fashioned fun that might even give you a minute to drink your coffee while it’s still hot. Let’s get to it.
Low-Key Days: For When You Need a Breather
We all have those days where just getting everyone dressed feels like a major victory. These activities are perfect for when you need to conserve energy but still want to keep the kids engaged.
1. The Great Fort Building Competition
This isn’t just building a fort; this is an event. Gather every blanket, pillow, and clothespin you own. I usually split the kids into teams (or it’s me vs. them) and set a timer. The goal? The coziest, most structurally sound fort wins. The best part? They get to have a picnic lunch inside their creation. It eats up a solid two hours, FYI. 🙂
2. DIY Ornament Decorating (With What You Have)
Forget buying a kit. Raid your recycling bin for cardboard, dig out the old buttons, and grab some glue. Cut out simple shapes like stars or trees from cardboard and let the kids go to town. IMO, the messier and more eclectic they are, the better they look on the tree next year. It’s a great way to use up those random craft supplies.
3. Indoor Scavenger Hunt
I’m a big fan of activities that require zero prep. Make a list on the fly: “Find something red, something that makes a noise, something soft, and something that starts with the letter ‘B’.” Hand them a bag and set them loose. It’s amazing how long they’ll search for a single paperclip.
4. Holiday Movie Marathon with a Twist
Sure, you can just put on a movie, but where’s the fun in that? Pick a theme. It could be “Movies with Snow,” “Animated Classics,” or “Movies Featuring Animals.” Make some popcorn, turn down the lights, and create a “theater” experience. Let them design tickets and “usher” each other to their seats. It turns passive watching into an interactive event.
5. The “Stay-in-Your-PJs” Day
This is my personal favorite. Declare an official day of rest. No getting dressed, no going outside. Read books, play board games, and eat breakfast for dinner. Guilt-free. It teaches the kids (and reminds us) that downtime is important, too.
Getting Active: Burning Off the Sugar Rush
Let’s face it, between the cookies and the hot chocolate, they’re going to be bouncing off the walls. Here’s how to channel that energy.
6. Backyard Winter Olympics
Snow or no snow, you can make this happen. If you have snow, events can include snow angel competitions, snowball target practice, or a sledding relay. No snow? Obstacle courses are your best friend. Use hula hoops, cones, and a jump rope to create a series of challenges. Time each kid and let them compete for the gold medal (which can just be a chocolate coin).
7. Nature Scavenger Walk
This is like the indoor version, but outside. The goal is to find specific items in nature—a pinecone, a cool-looking stick, a red berry, a feather. It gives the walk a purpose, which for some reason makes kids complain less about the cold. Bonus: They usually crash for a good nap afterward.
8. Dance Party: Freeze Dance Edition
Crank up the holiday music (Mariah Carey is mandatory) and have a dance party. When the music stops, everyone has to freeze. The first person to move is out and becomes the “DJ” for the next round. It’s a simple way to get the wiggles out and requires absolutely nothing but a playlist.
9. Ice Skating or Sledding Adventure
If you’re lucky enough to have a rink or a hill nearby, this is a no-brainer. Pack some hot chocolate in a thermos and make a whole afternoon of it. Sure, it requires bundling everyone up, which is a workout in itself, but the pure joy on their faces makes it worth the effort.
Creative & Crafty: Making a (Tasteful) Mess
Time to break out the glitter. I recommend doing these on a day when you’re prepared to mop.
10. Salt Dough Ornaments
This is a classic for a reason. Mix 4 cups of flour, 1 cup of salt, and 1.5 cups of warm water. Knead it into a dough, roll it out, and let the kids go wild with cookie cutters. Bake at 200°F for a few hours until hard, and then they can paint them. These make amazing keepsakes and gifts for grandparents.
11. Paper Snowflakes: The Never-Ending Activity
All you need is paper and scissors. Fold, cut, and unfold. The look of amazement when they see the pattern is priceless. Challenge them to make the most intricate design. You can tape them to the windows for instant winter decor.
12. Homemade Playdough
Store-bought playdough is fine, but homemade is a whole different sensory experience. It’s softer, smells amazing, and you can make it in holiday colors (red and green, or sparkly white). Here’s a no-cook recipe: Mix 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup salt, 2 tbsp cream of tartar, 2 tbsp oil, and 1.5 cups boiling water. Add food coloring and knead until smooth. It keeps for months!
13. Design a Gingerbread House (The Easy Way)
You can buy a kit (no shame in that game), but I prefer buying a stack of graham crackers and using a strong royal icing recipe to build our own. It’s less structurally sound, which leads to more hilarious collapses, but that’s part of the fun. The rule is: if you build it, you can eat it.
Culinary Creations: Edible Entertainment
Getting kids in the kitchen is messy and slow, but it teaches them valuable skills and keeps them occupied. It’s a win-win.
14. Cookie Decorating Extravaganza
Bake a big batch of sugar cookies (or buy pre-made ones from the store—I won’t tell) and set up a decorating station with different colored icings and sprinkles. Let them go absolutely wild. The cookies might look like a toddler’s art project, but they’ll be eaten with pride.
15. Homemade Hot Chocolate Bar
This is less of an activity and more of a vibe. Set out mugs, hot chocolate, and a bunch of toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, candy canes for stirring, chocolate shavings, and sprinkles. Let everyone customize their own cup. It’s perfect for a cozy afternoon.
16. Make Your Own Pizza Night
Turn dinner into an activity. Provide pre-made dough, sauce, cheese, and a variety of toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers). Each kid gets to design their own personal pizza. They’re much more likely to eat their veggies if they put them on there themselves.
Quiet & Calm: For the Evening Wind-Down
After a day full of noise and activity, it’s nice to have a few go-to’s for some peace and quiet.
17. The Great Puzzle Challenge
Pick a puzzle that’s slightly too hard for your youngest but doable for the whole family. Set it up on a card table where it can be left undisturbed. Throughout the break, family members can stop by and add a few pieces. It’s a collaborative, calming project that feels great to finish.
18. Holiday Story Time by the “Fire”
Find a playlist of Christmas stories on YouTube or grab a stack of books from the library. Turn off the main lights, turn on some string lights or a fake candle, and cuddle up on the couch. It’s a simple way to connect and wind down before bed.
19. Write Letters to Family Members
In a world of texts and emails, getting mail is a huge deal for kids. Sit them down with paper, markers, and stickers and have them write (or draw) letters to grandparents, cousins, or aunts and uncles. It practices writing skills and spreads joy. Plus, they might even get some mail back!
20. Create a Time Capsule
This is a meaningful activity that makes you look like a super-parent. Grab a shoebox and have everyone put in a few items that represent their year. A favorite photo, a small toy, a list of their current favorites. Seal it up with a date on it to open next year. It’s a beautiful tradition that helps everyone reflect on the past year and look forward to the new one.
You’ve Got This!
So there you have it—20 ways to survive (and actually enjoy) winter break. The key is to not over-schedule yourself. Pick one or two things a day, and let the rest of the time be free for unstructured play. Those are often the moments they remember most anyway.
Now, go forth and conquer that break! And remember, if all else fails, there’s always the “Stay-in-your-PJs” day. You’re welcome. 😉
