ON ME – J.ING Plaid Set (Jacket here and Skirt here) | Dannijo Earrings | Stuart Weitzman Boots || ON HAZEL – Il Gufo Tulle Dress (Similar & ON SALE) | Il Gufi Sequin Coat
It’s our first long weekend after the holidays, which means Dan and I have to find ways to keep the girls entertained. And if you live in the frozen tundra, i.e. NYC and its neighbors, then you know the struggle to entertain in the wintertime is real. So I’ve put together a list of winter activities for kids that include both outdoor ideas and indoor ideas. Most of these are activities that I even have a great time doing. So if you don’t have any plans for MLK weekend, take the kids out for a spin and try some of these things……
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1. Ice Skating
Ice skating is a classic in the winter and everyone always has a good time – and it’s a great way to get some exercise in. The Central Park Ice Skating Rink is my favorite day or night.
2. Skiing
If you’re into snow sports, or want to give your kids an early start, skiing is always a ton of fun. Just make sure you have the proper safety gear and dress appropriately to avoid frostbite and hypothermia.
3. Bumper Car on Ice
Ice bumper cars are really a thing – and they look amazing to me. Not all states are offering it yet, but luckily, New York is one of them! I love the thrill of bumping and sliding into friends and family on ice – and I know the girls would too.
4. Roller Skating
Ice skating is a ton fun, but I have to admit, it can pose quite the challenge for younger ones. So, an indoor roller skating rink is a great alternative. It’s also much easier for kids to learn. Find one that plays great music and time will pass quickly.
5. Bowling
Bowling brings out my competitive spirit! And in a family of 4, we always love going two on two. If your kids are really young, ask if the venue offers duckpins.
6. Indoor Rock Climbing
If you or anyone in your family is craving adventure, it’s time to try indoor rock climbing. I like it because it gives me a full-body workout without feeling like I’m working out. And I think it’s great for kids because it builds physical and mental stamina while teaching them the importance of working towards something, which can be applied later on in life.
7. Indoor Water Park
Are there any kids out there who don’t love water? If the insistence on going to the pool or beach just doesn’t stop, an indoor water park will satiate that desire.
8. Movie Date
I love having movie dates with the kids, especially at dine-in theaters where you can enjoy a meal in the dark and watch the latest flick.
9. Indoor Trampoline Park
If your kids are super energetic, this activity will definitely drive some of that down. Though seemingly dangerous, it can be safe and fun as long as your children are being supervised. Find one that blocks off certain hours – or blocks off a separate area for kids.
10. Paint Night
I think it’s so important to encourage kids to be creative and to give them a creative outlet. Coloring with crayons and markers can get old, but painting – never! So, have a competition, painting a mural of the same thing (maybe it’s snowflakes or a winter scene). Then let someone, like grandma or grandpa, pick the winner. Adults can enjoy a few glasses of wine while painting.
11. Game Night
If you’re ever stuck in a snow storm and have kids complaining about being bored, it’s cue to bring out the board games. Classics like the Game of Life and Monopoly never get old in times like this.
12. Local Staycation
Dan and I recently took the girls on a staycation in the city. I’ve realized after having two kids that sometimes, a change of backdrop or scenery is all they’re really craving. The simple act of staying in a hotel and walking random streets brought them so much joy. I’ll definitely be planning for this again in the future.
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What are your favorite activities to do with kids when it’s cold outside?
