Skip to main content

14 Fun Activities for Winter Break

This winter, don't despair when snow days and holidays leave you with a house full of bored and bickering kids. These fun winter-break activities will keep your children occupied and happy both indoors and out – throughout the frosty season!

Ice Candles

ice candle in snow

Enchant your children with a magical and easy outdoor activity that will tranform your backyard into a winter wonderland.

Read the instructions for Ice Candles.

More: The Ultimate Guide to Living Peacefully With Your Teen College Student This Winter Break

Holiday Baskets

The holidays might be over, but it's never too late to do volunteer work with a fun and easy crafts project. Feel good by collaborating with your kids to help those in need.

Read the instructions for Holiday Baskets.

Read a Good Book

kids reading in tent

As the snow falls gently outside, curl up with your kids, a blanket, and a good book. Read aloud or silently on a cozy winter day.

Browse our picks for the best books for all ages: Age-by-Age Guide to Classic Books for Kids.

Snow Sculptures

It's no ordinary snow day when you transform your snowman into a work of art! Your kids will jump at the chance to show off their creativity and impress you with their snow creations..

Read the instructions for Snow Sculptures.

Movie Marathon

family watching tv on couch

Have a movie marathon with all the best Oscar-winning films that are appropriate for kids. Introduce your kids to old classics and get acquainted with a few of the newer ones.

Check out our favorite Oscar movies: 10 Classic Oscar-Winning Movies to Watch with Your Kids.

Rainsticks from Recyclables

When it's too cold and wet to brave the outdoors, set your kids up with an earth-friendly craft activity that will keep them busy and give you peace of mind.

Read the instructions for Rainsticks from Recyclables.

Backyard Weather Stations

backyard weather station

Your kids can learn something even on the days when they stay home from school (just don't let them in on it)! This educational outdoor activity will teach your kids about weather and record keeping.

Read the instructions for Backyard Weather Stations.

Board Games

Put your family to the test with the ultimate board-game challenge. Set up a championship and spend the day indoors, competing for prizes.

Take a look at these family favorites for some ideas: Top Ten Classic Board Games.

Snow Globe

snow globe craft

There is something magical about a snow globe. This craft is a great way to upcycle trash and other items around the house. 

Read the instructions for Snow Globe Craft.

Snow Bricks

Teach your kids the trick to making the perfect winter fort. This easy method will have children building for hours.

Read the instructions for Snow Bricks.

Winter Murals

winter crafts

This project combines the indoors and outdoors for a perfect winter day. Tap into your child's inner artist and enjoy the season with this project.

Read the instructions for Winter Murals.

More: Winter Craft Activities for Kids

Talking Sticks and Public Speaking

Enjoy nature with this art project for a cold winter day. Spend quality time with your child, and cooperate to make a beautiful craft piece.

Read the instructions for Talking Sticks and Public Speaking.

Astronomy Activities

father and soon looking at stars on tablet

Raise stargazers by teaching your kids about the night sky. The activities will keep your kids mesmerized and staring up at the sky for hours.

Read the instructions for Astronomy Activities.

Family Gardening Tips

In many parts of the country, gardening can be enjoyed year-round. Kids enjoy working outdoors and watching the fruits of their labors bloom!

Read the instructions for Family Gardening Tips.

Join the Family

Your partner in parenting from baby name inspiration to college planning.

Subscribe