Driving rain, plummeting temperatures and howling winds. The winter months might be filled with festive spirit and the anticipation of a new year, but they’re bitterly cold, dark and when you have small children to entertain – definitely hard work!
When the weather is against you and you’re all stuck inside it’s not long before tempers flare and arguments ensue. From accusations of taking each other’s toys to desperate cries of their sibling looking at them too much…cabin fever sets in and frustrations are high. So, what’s the answer?
Well, here I’ve gathered my top 5 simple family activities that everyone can enjoy until the bad weather clears up.
Get those colouring books out
You can have all the fancy technology there is and toys that are all singing and all dancing, but sometimes it’s the simplest things in life that people enjoy the most. Colouring is a creative outlet which is also soothing and relaxing – perfect for a little quiet time! If your colouring books have seen better days then check out some free colouring pages online and print them out instead – for hp printer ink at low prices, click the link. Make sure you have plenty of crayons, felt tips and colouring pencils too. It’s the perfect activity for when things are getting a little strained between siblings.
Baking
If you can bear to surrender your kitchen to the mercy of your children for the afternoon, then baking might be the perfect activity. It’s ideal for all ages, again works as a creative outlet an also shows little ones the magic of putting time and effort into something – with great results! It requires a little bit of planning, so decide with the kids what you’re going to bake and then make sure you have all the necessary ingredients available. Work out age appropriate tasks for each child, such as measuring for the older ones and mixing for the smaller ones. And of course everyone can enjoy the end result!
Make a movie
There was nothing more fun or exciting when you’d get to watch family movies as a kid. So, why not recreate the magic with your own children? Whether the kids create a story, or everyone takes it in turn filming part of their day, you can all come together and edit the footage into one short film for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Reading time
Is there anything more comforting then curling up with a good book whilst the bad weather rages on outside? Better still, cuddling up with your little ones and reading a story together. Let each child choose a short story and take your time with it. Go through each page and illustration, ask them what the characters might be feeling or what they think might happen next.
A dance party
All you need is internet access or some pre-downloaded playlists and you can all have fun at your very own dance party. Try a little karaoke or run some competitions for the funniest dance or craziest outfit. If you really want to push the boat out then break out the party food and balloons!
B xx
