Indoor play activities are everywhere on the web, just hard to find. Even if you get outdoors this winter, you’ll no doubt be spending a bit more time indoors than usual. Here’s some ideas and resources for indoor play:
Imagination
I already linked to this list from KaBOOM! on our Facebook page, but here it is for everyone:
KaBOOM! Ideas for Indoor Play During Severe Weather
Reading with B.A. Bookworm
My friend, Mindi, comes up with some amazingly creative ideas for reading with your kids. I find them to be really unique and her ideas make reading with my kids more fun and interactive – almost like play. Click here to link to her website B.A. Bookworm. Today she’s written new verses to the 12 Days of Christmas with a “mom” theme. She’s debuting one verse an hour.
Music
For me, it’s a no-brainer. I can put on a playlist of the kids favorite songs and their imaginations go wild. I’ll be posting some playlists soon, but start with Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players.
Art
Make your own art station at home. Just throw out some supplies: crayons, paper, scissors if they are old enough. My 4 year old loves to “paint” with a paintbrush and water on our kitchen floor. She’ll happily create disappearing artwork for large blocks of time.
LEGO Magic
Don’t underestimate the power of LEGOS. Get DUPLOS or MEGABLOCKS for the littlest kids. Even if they are very young, build something and knock it down. So great for developing motor skills and unleashing their imagination.
Holiday Pretend
I’m stealing this idea from my daughter’s preschool. They played a motor skills game where they started off on the floor in a ball and bounced into a Jack-in-the-Box. Then they marched like toy soldiers and pranced like princesses. They brought all their favorite toys to life by acting them out. This needs a little direction, but provides lots of laughs and fun.
Cooking
I love cooking, but I’m not a great baker. Surprisingly, I can still pull off a batch of homemade soft pretzels with help from little hands. Try this recipe for Buttery Soft Pretzels.
More Ideas?
- Check out No Time for Flash Cards: A resource of activities for young children that promote play, discovery, and learning.
- Subscribe to the Play Activities: Where Parents+Kids=Fun newsletter.
Have fun, play often!
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Those kids look familiar? And, I disagree….I think you are a fabulous baker! Can’t wait to try the soft pretzel recipe! Of course, a good fort on a rainy day may come in handy too!