From creating snowmen and building forts to sledding and snowball fights, snow days are a time of joy and wonder for children. But as fun as these outdoor activities are, spending an entire day in the harsh winter weather is never advisable for your little one’s health. Finding activities for you and your child to share in the great indoors can be an excellent way to strengthen your bond.

Here is a collection of fun indoor activities you and your child can try the next time it’s just too cold to venture outside!

1. Get crafty with homemade snow globes.

Too cold to enjoy the Toledo winter weather? No problem! Creating your own snow globes is one way to add a touch of snowy fun to you and your child’s indoor itinerary. This craft is easy to complete and, like most on this list, doesn’t require many supplies.

Supplies List:

• A small jam jar
• Glitter
• A plastic figurine/toy
• Superglue
• A glue gun
• Water

2. Bake some tasty, allergy-free treats.

Since the beginning of time, there has never been a better way to bring people together than through food. It helps us learn more about ourselves and those we share it with. Baking with your child can be an excellent opportunity to introduce them to the culinary world and instill the importance of following directions. Plus, you’ll both be left with a tasty treat when it’s all said and done!

Looking for a new recipe to try with your child? We recommend checking this featured list from the Martha Stewart blog for kid-friendly, allergy-free treats that are perfectly tasty and safe to share with friends, neighbors and loved ones.

3. Do a snowman craft with natural elements.

Snowmen are a staple winter activity, but who said they must be made of snow? Instead of heading out into the Ohio winter winds, try making a frosty friend without the fuss by doing so as an indoor arts and crafts project. Incorporate natural elements from the surrounding area for added decorative features.

Supplies List:

• Cotton balls
• Construction paper
• Glue
• Natural elements for decorative features (pebbles for eyes, berries for buttons, etc.)

4. Put on a puppet show.

Short on supplies, but full of imagination? A puppet show may be all you and your little one need to pass the time. Puppets may be the simplest idea to pull together as they can be made from practically anything, including a brown paper lunch bag, a sock, or any other household item. Puppet shows are a great way to promote your child’s imagination and invite them to experiment with storytelling.

PBS offers a guide for putting your show together if you are looking for a more structured procedure to make it to showtime.

5. Enjoy some indoor birdwatching.

Children are naturally curious about the world around them. At Children’s Discovery Center, we have noticed our students tend to take a particular interest in our local feathered friends and have encouraged their exploration on the topic through our Reggio Emilia-fueled projects.

Promote your child’s sense of exploration by setting up an indoor bird-watching station. Take things one step further by encouraging them to grab their crayons or colored pencils and create their own local bird guide based on their observations.

6. Experiment together with a snowflake craft.

School may be out, but there’s always time for a science lesson. Spend some time playing mad scientists as you and your child create these beautiful crystal snowflakes. Formed with everyday household items, this creative craft can double as a winter decoration you’ll both cherish for years to come.

Supply List:

• Pipe cleaners
• String
• Pencil
• Jar
• Borax
• Blue food coloring
• Boiling water

7. Get creative with edible paint.

This simple STEAM activity is safe for all ages and tasty too! Edible paint is perfect for toddlers and young children who tend to put things in their mouths. This project is easy to complete. While painting is fun, you can even teach your child how to make the materials themselves!

Supply List:

• 1 (14 oz.) can of sweetened condensed milk
• Gel food coloring
• Clean paint brushes (new is best or better yet food-safe)
• Snacks to paint (like sliced fruit, sugar cookies, marshmallows, and/or Rice Krispie Treats)

At Children’s Discovery Center, we promote our students’ development by encouraging their interest and interaction with the world around them, but education extends beyond the classroom. Positive interaction with your child at home is irreplaceable in helping them grow and thrive! We hope you enjoy these fun winter activities together throughout the season.