Even with COVID-19 putting a damper on things this year, you can still get in some seasonal fun this winter. If you’re looking for things to do for the holidays or beyond, try these winter activities that the whole family will love.
Make Winter Treats
There are tons of baked goods and other treats that are associated with the winter and the holiday season. Whether you have traditional family recipes or are looking for some new treats, it can be a fun family activity. Cooking and baking can provide an opportunity for younger kids to practice measuring or sharpen their motor skills. For inspiration, check out Delish’s list of kid-friendly recipes.
Winter-Themed Arts and Crafts
Another one of our favorite hands-on winter activities is creating winter arts and crafts. This list from Projects With Kids has lots of ideas for different ages and different wintery themes. Craft time is another opportunity to reinforce math skills like counting and measuring. They can also help hone fine motor skills and unleash creativity.
Winter Walks
If you live somewhere with winter temperatures that are usually above freezing, getting out for a winter walk can be a nice chance to get out of the house and get moving. If it’s still chilly, bundle up a bit and explore your neighborhood or a local trail. You can have kids observe the changes in the environment that come with the winter season.
Encourage Reading
If it’s chilly out or if your family members are just looking for some new entertainment, turn off Netflix and have a designated reading time during the day. If your local library is open, you can follow the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidelines to prevent getting sick and browse the shelves. There are also digital books and audiobooks available from your local library or subscription services.
Watch New Movies Settle in for a Movie Night
Remember what we said about turning off Netflix? You can break that rule to enjoy this winter activity. Movie nights can be a really fun way to spend the evening with family. You can introduce kids to classic favorites or discovering new films to enjoy together. Pop some popcorn or make some hot chocolate to up the coziness factor.
Have a Game Night
Pick a night each week to get together for some friendly family competition. Break out a board game or a card game for some easy fun. Whether it’s a game of strategy or chance, a nice game night is one of the easiest winter activities for the whole family.
Look For Ways to Help Others
No matter the season, you can find ways to help others in your community. Whether you sign up to deliver meals to those who can’t go out themselves or make cards to give to residents at a nursing home, giving back makes everyone feel good. Cleaning out the closets and donating sweaters and coats that kids have outgrown is also a good way to help others.
Explore Activities in Your Area
Even with COVID-19 protections in place, you can still enjoy some wintery magic in your area. There are many festive events that allow you to avoid large crowds and social distance. Check the websites of your local chamber of commerce or tourism to see a calendar of things that are still going on. For Jacksonvillians, you can check out jacksonville.com for holiday events. If you do venture out, make sure you follow safety guidelines, stay at least six feet away from people outside of your family unit, wear masks or approved face coverings, and wash your hands frequently.
Make an Appointment
The team at Carithers Pediatric Group is here to provide comprehensive care for your children at all stages of life. If you have concerns about your child’s health this winter and want to make an appointment, call our Riverside office at (904) 387-6200 or our Southside office at (904) 997-0023. Before your appointment, check our COVID-19 action plan for our policies and guidelines.