Now that wintery winds are whistling and the days seem to be getting ever shorter, it’s time to discover new indoor activities to keep little ones entertained.
Indeed, have you by any chance found yourself searching for “indoor activities near me” — or, more specifically, “indoor kids activities near me”? Well, you're in luck!
With creativity and fun, indoor activities can become memorable moments of joy and learning. Why not explore these cosy and captivating ideas for your children’s entertainment?
Heartwarming ideas for creative crafting
Winter activities truly come alive with arts and crafts. This is because they not only captivate but also ignite a child's imagination and creativity. Let's explore two such hands-on projects — with step-by-step instructions — to keep those little hands busy!
Tissue paper sun-catcher craft — harnessing winter’s glow
What little sunlight exists during these dark, winter days needs to be harnessed! Transform the grey light of winter into a kaleidoscope of vivid hues with this charming tissue paper sun-catcher. Ideal for illuminating windows and adding a splash of colour to your home!
You will need:
- Baking paper
- A variety of coloured tissue paper
- Black card
- PVA glue
- Scissors
Crafting your sun-catcher in 4 simple steps
1. Preparing the tissue paper: Tear tissue paper into small squares — allow little ones to explore with various colours and textures!
2. Creating the colourful background: Ask your little crafter to spread PVA glue onto a sheet of baking paper. Next, place the tissue paper squares onto the glue to create a vibrant collage. Encourage your child to creatively juxtapose colours to make interesting patterns!
3. Shape your sun-catcher: Ask your child to draw and then cut out a shape onto black card (a heart or animal usually works well). Within this, help your little one to draw and then cut out a smaller version of the same shape. This should leave an approximately 2cm black card outline of the chosen shape.
4. Assemble your sun-catcher: Place the black card outline over the tissue paper-covered baking paper, trimming any excess for a perfect fit.
5. Showcase your masterpiece: Find an ideal spot on your window to exhibit this luminous creation. Watch as it beautifully captures the light, casting a mesmerising array of colours into your room.
Did you know: this idea can easily be adapted to make window pane Christmas decorations! For example, why not try a star shape?
Cooking up some fun!
Food prepping with kids isn't just a bonding activity — it's a hands-on educational experience.
Decorating toadstool cupcakes
One such learning opportunity would be to discuss how some mushrooms have developed a bright red surface to deter animals and humans from eating them — a vital reminder that mushroom foraging should be left to the experts.
When it comes to decorating toadstool cupcakes, you and your little one can follow these three simple steps.
You will need:
- Your favourite cupcakes (homemade or store-bought – we promise your secret's safe with us!)
- White frosting
- Red food colouring
- Mini marshmallows
Steps to success — it’s as easy 1, 2, 3
1. Colouring the frosting: Start by adding a small amount of red food colouring into your white frosting. Blend it thoroughly until you have a vivid shade of red.
2. Applying the frosting: Apply the red frosting to your cupcakes. This step is not only fun but also educational — as your little ones learn about the colour and texture of a toadstool’s cap!
3. Creating the spots: Delicately press the mini marshmallows with your fingers to flatten them. These will serve as the distinctive spots on the toadstool. Carefully place them on the red frosting to bring your toadstool cupcakes to life!
10 extra winter activities for kids
1. Indoor physical activity: Incorporate indoor yoga or exercise routines into their routine. This not only promotes fitness but also helps expend excess energy in a positive and constructive way! Why not download our Yoga pose printables?
2. Personalised snowflakes: With only paper and scissors, you can help your little one to craft unique snowflakes. Hang them around the house for a personalised winter wonderland!
3. Craft a winter wonderland in a jar: Create a magical snow globe using jars, glitter, and little figurines. Witness the enchantment of a winter scene encapsulated in a miniature masterpiece!
4. Wintery creative writing: Motivate your children to pen their own stories or maintain a winter journal. This not only nurtures their writing skills but also provides a means to capture and cherish precious winter memories.
5. Puzzles and board games: Dive into the world of board games and puzzles! Whether revisiting timeless classics or exploring new ones, these activities not only entertain but also nurture critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making them a valuable and enjoyable pastime!
6. Winter time capsule: Encourage children to curate a box filled with their favourite items and drawings. Seal it securely for a delightful unveiling next winter — offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane!
7. Storytelling adventures: Bring everyone together for a captivating storytelling session! Whether delving into a book or crafting your own tales, this activity is ideal for igniting imagination and improving language skills in an enjoyable and interactive way.
8. Explore the world of science: Engage in simple and enjoyable science experiments that bring education to life! Whether it’s crafting a volcano with baking soda and vinegar, or concocting rainbow jars, these activities are not only mesmerising but also offer valuable insights in an entertaining way.
9. Indoor adventure park: Convert your living space into a realm of excitement where pillows become mountains, chairs morph into caves, and blankets evolve into forts. This imaginative setting offers a wonderful opportunity for kids to let their creativity soar, whilst staying warm and snug indoors!
10. Host a movie marathon: Set up a movie day featuring family-friendly films or animated classics. It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind and share some quiet time together!
Arts and Crafts with toucanBox
Discover a hassle-free approach to creative activities with toucanBox. Our craft kits come equipped with all the materials and instructions needed for a variety of projects — making it easy for kids to unleash their creativity!
Visit our shop
Browse our shop for a wide range of fun activities, craft kits, and art supplies. Whether you’re looking for materials for your next art project or seeking the perfect gift, we've got you covered.
Join our Subscription Craft Club
Enrich your child’s winter months by subscribing to the toucanBox Craft Club. Receive a specially curated craft kit every month, tailored to your child’s age and interests. Joining our club ensures a consistent supply of enjoyable and educational activities, throughout the winter and beyond!
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into a world of adventures with toucanBox and unlock a realm of imaginative possibilities!
Curated by Jéssica Dorantes
Content Strategist and Editor
Graduated in Literature and Languages and specialised in Editorial Production, with a Linguistics Masters and Product Marketing Management certification. More than 5 years of experience working with educational content, three of them aimed specifically at children and families.
