Outdoor Family Activities in the Winter Months

Topics: Outdoor Activities 

Age Range: Preschool 

Depending on where you live, going outdoors during the winter might not be high on your list of fun things to do. However, outdoor time for children is important year-round. Outdoor activity sees a reduced risk of behavior problems, improved attention spans, an easier time falling asleep at night, and increased exposure to Vitamin D.

Here are some outdoor family activities that everyone can enjoy this winter.

1. Ice skate at an outdoor rink
2. Make snow angels
3. Go for a hike or a walk
4. Bring a camera on a hike and photograph nature
5. Collect items like twigs, pinecones, and leaves and make a winter sculpture
6. Build a snowman or animal snow sculpture
7. Bundle up and have a picnic
8. Look for wildlife, and observe from a distance
9. Make shapes with your tracks in the snow
10. Hold a winter-themed scavenger hunt
11. Play a winter sport such as hockey
12. Try a non-winter sport in the snow, like soccer or football
13. Offer to shovel a neighbor’s driveway or sidewalk
14. Check out local attractions such as zoos, state parks, and festivals, many of which stay open in the winter months
15. Play with your dog in the local off-leash area
16. Visit the playground if conditions are safe
17. Go sledding in your neighborhood
18. Take a mini ski or snowboard trip
19. Decorate the exterior of your house or your yard with lights
20. Walk around your neighborhood and admire the lights and decorations

No matter how warm or cold your winter is, there are many ways you and your family can enjoy the great outdoors. Try these outdoor family activities for the winter months.