What Some Cozy Winter Activities for the Whole Family (*That Don’t Involve Screens)?
This kind of cold makes us reach for a blanket, a mug of something warm, and (let's be honest)... a screen.
When the temp dip into the "not leaving the house" range, it can be tough to keep everyone entertained (*without defaulting to television, iPads, and our handy dandy phones....
BUT, the good news is that some of the coziest winter memories are made with no screens in sight!
** Check out these screen-free, family-friendly activities to help pass the coldest of days. Who knows?! They might even become new, beloved traditions!
BAKE TOGETHER
Winter is an excellent time for the kitchen to become the heart of the home. Why not choose a recipe that everyone can help with, like cookies, homemade pizza, or soup; Perhaps bake a bread that fills the house with warmth while it bakes...
The kiddos can measure, mix, and decorate, while adults handle the hot stuff. & the end result?... A shared accomplishment, memories made, and a delicious reward.
35 Cozy Dishes to Make When the Weather Is Cold and Dreary— https://thee...cozy-recipes/
18 Easy Baking Recipes for Kids — https://www....pes-for-kids/
PUZZLES & GAMES
Board games and puzzles have a magical way of slowing time down, creating a bonding experience, and helping us all to reconnect.
Whether it’s a quick card game or a multi-day puzzle spread across the dining table, these moments encourage conversation, laughter, and friendly competition. Plus, they give everyone something to gather around during those long winter evenings.
HANDMADE FUN!
Cold weather is the perfect time for some hands-on creativity. Activities like drawing, painting, crafting, or even building something together gives everyone a chance to express themselves... and there's no experience required.
Creative projects are especially great for kids during winter break, when energy levels are high but outdoor time is limited.
That’s one reason painting classes can be such a fun winter outing. At Pinot’s Palette Naperville, families often come in during the coldest months to warm up, try something new, and leave with a piece of art they made together. When it’s freezing outside, our warm studio is filled with paint, music, and laughter; It feels like a mini escape from winter.
Too cold to go out?? We offer virtual classes where you can paint from home wit recorded or printed out directions to follow!
https://www....paint-at-home
READ! (or Make Your Own Book!)
Pick a book everyone can enjoy and make reading it a shared experience. Take turns reading chapters aloud, or set aside a quiet time where everyone reads together. It’s calming, comforting, and a great way to wind down on dark winter nights.
We love these ideas for family picture books: https://www....-Picture-Book
Start a family “Year Book” - https://theh...ily-yearbook/
NO-SCREENS
Designate one evening a week as a no-screen night and let everyone help decide what you’ll do instead—games, crafts, cooking, storytelling, or even just talking. When it becomes routine, it stops feeling like a restriction and starts feeling like something special.