With schools closed for the next month and the cold winter front upon us, it can be a challenge to keep our little ones entertained at home. We’ve put together some activities to try as you stay snug at home this season.
Playing Games
Board games and structured games are a lovely way to connect as a family as well as being great for practicing social skills such as sharing, turn-taking, winning, and losing.
You can download some printable game ideas here: https://www.happinessishomemade.net/fun-printable-games-for-kids/
Making Playdough
Children love playdough and it’s a simple, easy activity to make and set up. Try our no-cook homemade recipe using basic ingredients and whip up a batch that will keep your little ones entertained. You can ask older children to help with measuring to get that maths practice in!
Chocolate playdough is always a favourite and a nice one to make for a winter treat! It’s almost good enough to eat!
Camping and Den Making
When the weather is cold and the mornings are dark, we all feel like building a blanket fort and camping out in it. Why not build a cosy indoor campsite for some pretend play? A blanket over some chairs, a play tent or any other makeshift den can help children feel safe and secure as they engage in imaginative play.
Add some hot chocolate or a picnic lunch for an extra treat, and don’t forget to spend some time hiding out there yourself, we all need a little downtime!
Movie Night
If you are missing the cinema and at home in isolation, try and recreate the experience in your living room. Close the curtains, organise snacks and drinks and take in a good movie as a family. If your children are old enough, you can turn this into a home school activity by getting them to make tickets, price snacks and ‘sell’ them to younger siblings.
Download free movie night printables here: https://www.lifeisaparty.ca/free-movie-night-printables/
Baking
Baking with children isn’t always the easiest task but it’s rewarding as your child gets to watch how they are able to create something yummy to share with their family. Put some music on, don’t worry about the mess and just enjoy the process.
Try some recipes on the Family Gems website: https://familygems.co.bw/2020/07/09/family-pizza-night-your-own-thin-crust-dough/
Pyjama Party
Make a morning easier by letting the children stay in pyjamas for a PJ party. Decorate the house with bunting, turn up the volume on the music and dance away some of that stress. A PJ party is a playful way to relieve tension as a family and it doesn’t take a lot of effort or preparation. It will definitely be a day your children remember from this winter at home.
You can listen to playlists and albums like this one using the free Spotify app: https://open.spotify.com/album/2h62bEeirX9MI4pNZauaJI?si=BCQRJYrKQ0SLHPhE4DUiiQ&dl_branch=1
Play @ Home Packs
For children under the age of 5, SensoBaby has a limited amount of Winter Warmer packs available to buy. P600 for 30 age-appropriate activities to keep your little one engaged and stimulated.
Includes a play guide, all the materials needed, and we’ve even made a playlist of songs for you to enjoy as you play! Contact us on 75305964 to order yours.
For more season-friendly entertainment ideas, here’s an article to help you stay connected with loved ones. Stay Safe, Stay Warm and Happy Playing!
SensoBaby has play, child wellbeing, and holistic development at the heart of all we do. Come and be part of our community!
