I get it, winter can be a challenging season for parents with toddlers, but did you know that outdoor activities can actually be a great way to keep your little ones active and engaged?
Not only does it promote physical health, but it can also boost mental well-being and provide a great opportunity for learning and exploration.
Nature Walks
Nature walks are a great way to get some fresh air and exercise while also introducing your toddler to the wonders of nature. To make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience, here are some things to keep in mind.
Choose a trail that’s suitable for your toddler’s age and abilities, and make sure it’s not too icy out for this. Look for paths that are flat and wide, with no dangerous obstacles.
Make sure your little one is dressed appropriately for the weather, with warm layers and sturdy footwear. And don’t forget to bring some snacks and water, as well as any necessary baby gear like a stroller or carrier.
During the walk, keep your toddler engaged by pointing out interesting things you see along the way, like animals, plants, or rocks!
You could also create a scavenger hunt by making a list of things to find, such as pine cones or animal footprints.
You could also take your toddler on a nature walk and look for birds. Bring a bird identification book like this or use a bird identification app on your phone to learn about the different birds you see.
Pack a thermos of hot cocoa and some snacks and have a winter picnic in the park while bird watching! You could even bring a blanket to sit on and make a snow angel together.
These kinds of activities not only make the walk more fun, but they also encourage your child’s curiosity and learning…and you can bring all of your children for this activity…like a family outing.
Playground Visits
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can’t visit the playground! In fact, some playgrounds are winter-friendly with equipment designed for colder weather…especially if you’re in Canada like me!
Make sure to take precautions to ensure your toddler’s safety, such as wearing proper winter gear and checking the equipment for ice or snow.
You could also play games or do activities together on the playground to make it even more fun! The only thing to REALLY watch out for on winter playgrounds is the ICE.
It can get a little scary so be sure to inspect the equipment before your toddler goes on it.
While you’re at the park….build a snowmen together! You could even decorate the snowman with hats, scarves, and buttons!!
Sensory Exploration in the Backyard
Sensory play is great for toddlers and can be easily done in your own backyard. Whether it’s making snowballs, searching for frozen objects, or just feeling the different textures of snow or ice, there are plenty of ways to stimulate your toddler’s senses.
Just make sure you create a safe environment for them to play in and dress appropriately for the weather.
You could also include an activity like snow painting to fill those sensory needs in the winter.
Fill a spray bottle with water and food coloring and let your toddler use it to paint the snow. It’s a fun and creative way to play in the snow while adding some color to the winter landscape.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is a great winter activity for toddlers and can be enjoyed with the help of a parent. It’s a fun way to get exercise and fresh air while experiencing the excitement of gliding on ice. If you live in an area with access to an ice rink, that’s a great option. We have one in every community where I live, because Hockey and ice skating is HUGE!
But if not, you can also create your own rink in your backyard if the weather allows. Just make sure to take the necessary safety precautions, such as wearing proper ice skates and protective gear, and supervising your toddler at all times.
More Exciting Winter Activities For Toddlers
- Building a snowman – Toddlers can have a blast rolling snowballs and stacking them to create their own snowman. Don’t forget to add a carrot for a nose and rocks for eyes and buttons!
- Sledding – Sledding is a classic winter activity that toddlers can enjoy with adult supervision. Find a gentle slope and help your little one slide down on a sled or toboggan.
- Snowball tossing – Toddlers can practice their throwing skills by tossing soft snowballs or foam balls to each other. This can be a fun and active outdoor game that encourages gross motor skills. I really like these snowball makers for when the kids are really small.
- Snow angels – Encourage your toddlers to lie down on the snow and move their arms and legs to make snow angels. This simple activity can be a fun way for toddlers to enjoy the snow and engage in imaginative play.
- Winter scavenger hunt – Create a winter-themed scavenger hunt by making a list of items for your toddler to find, such as pinecones, icicles, or animal tracks. This can be a fun and educational outdoor activity that promotes observation and exploration skills.
- Snow painting – Fill spray bottles with water and a few drops of food coloring, and let your toddler “paint” the snow with colorful designs. This can be a creative and sensory activity that allows toddlers to experiment with colors and textures. Here is a great kit for painting snowmen.
- Snowshoeing – If you have access to snowshoes, toddlers can enjoy a unique winter adventure by strapping on snowshoes and exploring snowy trails or fields. Make sure to choose child-sized snowshoes and provide proper supervision.
- Snow digging – Toddlers can have fun digging and playing in the snow with shovels, buckets, and other digging tools. This can be a great sensory and fine motor activity that encourages imaginative play and creativity in the snow. We really liked this shovel for our winter this year for the kids.
Safety Considerations
Speaking of dressing appropriately for the weather, it’s crucial to ensure your toddler stays warm and protected from the elements. This means choosing the right winter gear, including warm coats, hats, gloves, and boots. Layer, layer, layer…!
And don’t forget the sunscreen! Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean the sun’s harmful rays aren’t still present.
Lastly, make sure to watch out for cold-related illnesses like hypothermia and take preventative measures to keep your little one safe.
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