How to Keep Kids Busy Indoors When the Weather Turns Cold ❄️

The days are getting shorter and the air is getting colder. We know it can be a challenge to keep kids active, engaged, happy and entertained during the winter months. Whether you’re a parent juggling work, family and life or a babysitter helping out, we have some fun activities for you to keep in mind as the days get colder. We hope a little creativity on chilly days turns into cozy, fun memory making moments! Our goal is to keep the kids happy AND their adults! 

🎨 Get Creative with Arts and Crafts

Try easy crafts like:

• Leaf rubbings or paper snowflakes

• Simple Paper Cutting

• Homemade play-dough with warm cinnamon scents

• Pinecone painting or DIY holiday ornaments

💡 Tip: Set up a “craft station” with paper, glue, markers, and recyclable materials so kids can create anytime.

🍪 Bake (or No-Bake!) Together

Kids love helping in the kitchen! Try simple recipes like:

• No-bake cookies or cereal bars

• Decorated sugar cookies

• Homemade hot cocoa mix jars

Cooking teaches measuring, patience, and creativity and the results are delicious and the fun memories last forever!

🏠 Build Epic Forts

Grab blankets, couch cushions, and flashlights for instant adventure! You can read stories inside, play pretend, or even watch a movie from the fort. 

Let’s not forget the simplicity of building with Legos and Magna-Tiles with imagination! It’s a simple way to make a normal afternoon be exciting.

📚 Have Story time (with a Twist)

Instead of just reading, act out the story or have kids invent their own endings. And don’t forget about dress up! If they’re old enough, you can help them write and illustrate their own mini books.

🎶 Dance Parties and Movement Games

When kids are full of energy, get them moving indoors! Try:

• Freeze dance

• Simon Says

• Indoor scavenger hunts

• Yoga for kids (YouTube has lots of short, safe routines)

🎭 Host a Mini Talent Show

Let each child show off a “talent”; singing, magic tricks, storytelling, or dancing. You can even record their performance to share with parents later!

💛 Create a “Cozy Corner”

Designate a comfy reading or relaxation spot with blankets, pillows, and soft lighting. It’s great for downtime before naps or bedtime. If they’re old enough, you can keep a journal there and include daily reflections. 

☕ Bonus for Parents: Take a Break!

When cabin fever hits, it’s okay to call in reinforcements. A trusted babysitter can give you time to focus on work, errands, or a well-deserved night out knowing your kids are having fun indoors, safely and creatively and we got you covered! At The Babysitting Service, our sitters know how to keep kids happy, active, and entertained, even on the chilliest days. ❄️