Winter Tips!

Now that the holidays are over and Punxsutawney Phil has predicted a long winter, many families are stuck at home with no end to winter in sight. While every family is hopeful that the rest of the winter won’t be that unbearable, there’s sure to be some boredom and restlessness along the way. Here are some important tips for you to help stave off cabin fever.

1. If the weather permits, go outside! If it’s not too cold to go outside, get out of the house! Young children will already be spending enough time indoors during the cold winter months so it’s important to get them outside whenever possible. If there’s snow outside, make snow angels, or snow “kids” or even go sledding. You don’t even need a fancy sled or huge hill to go sledding. Some golf courses will let you cross country ski or sled during the winter; just as long as you stay off the greens. (It’s best to ask first to be certain). If there isn’t any snow, go outside for walks anyway. Just be aware of the temperature, dress in layers and always protect exposed skin.

2. Head to the library: Just because it may be too cold to play outside doesn’t mean you have to stay in the house. Use the time to go to the local library. Check the library’s schedule to see if there are any upcoming story hours or other events for young children. You can also check out books, movies and CDs to entertain the kids at home, and some for yourself as well.

3. Get creative: If you’re homebound, use the time to do some fun crafts with your children. You’d be surprised how simple some crafts can be. A pine cone, peanut butter and bird seeds are the only ingredients you need to make a birdfeeder. Spread peanut butter all over the pine cone and roll the pine cone in bird seeds. Hang the
birdfeeder outside a window and your children will love to watch the birds (and squirrels) having a snack.! You can also use old socks or brown paper lunch bags to make puppets and put on a show. My favorite activity for children is to take a large sheet of paper and have your child lie down on it. Trace the outline of your child onto the paper and leave the rest to him or her! It could take them hours to color in that outline!

4. When in doubt, bake! There really is something about baking cookies that kids absolutely love. And you don’t need a special occasion just to bake cookies. Remember, it’s not just about the cookies; break out the sprinkles and frosting and let them decorate away! One important tip though: be sure to use a “splat mat” while “cooking” or doing crafts. Place the “splat mat” under your child’s work space as they’re decorating, gluing, etc. This makes for easier clean-up!

5. Let their imaginations run wild! Being trapped indoors, kids are really going to need a creative outlet. Let them use the furniture, your extra pillows, cushions and blankets to make a fort or a nest. Kids can bring their stuffed animals, games and dolls into their fort and even nap there. Or, gather your child’s dolls together, dress them up and have a tea party or fashion show. You can also gather various toys and kitchen items and play “store,” where your child sets everything up and you shop with play money. Not only will this keep them entertained, it will introduce some basic math concepts too.

6. Get moving! Don’t let your kids just sit in front of the TV all day. You want them to move around and get tired out. Try substituting active children’s DVD’s and CD’s instead of watching TV. Or try one of my favorites, Banana Yoga, by Shana Banana to get your child moving. Hide and seek is a great game to play inside too. But, make sure you mark which areas of the house (basement, etc) are off limits. Take masking tape and mark X’s where they can’t go. This not only gives you control of where they play, but it teaches them symbols as well.

7. Finally, unwind at the end of the day: Bubble baths are a fun and perfect way for your child to end the day. You’ll get their bath out of the way and they love the bubbles! They can even bring their favorite water-proof toys or washable dolls into the tub with them. Once they’re done with their bath, your child will be more than ready for a story and bed. I recommend The Mitten by Jan Brett, a great winter story for children! There are so many great winter activities, both inside and outside, for children. Enjoy and stay warm!

Bette

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