When the weather is cold and dark it can be a challenge to find ways to entertain your preschooler. While you may think of winter as a time to relax and recharge, your child doesn’t necessarily have the same sense of the season and will likely want to continue to exploring the world around her. While you will likely spend many afternoons bundled up outside playing, you may find yourself inside more often due to frigid temperatures or darker days. Make the most of this season by trying out some creative activities with your child.

Here are a few activity ideas to get you started:

source: FreeImages.com/Faik Koseoglu

Masking Tape Racecourse

Bring car races to the next level by creating a racecourse around your house.

1. Get a role or two of masking tape or painter’s tape.
2. Work with your preschooler to create roads between two strips of tape. The tape should peel easily off most surfaces, but make sure to check before taping the roads to any delicate surfaces. The roads can go through one room or even your whole house!
3. Once the roads are finished you and your preschooler can each grab a racecar and get ready, set, go!

source: StockVault.net/Geoffrey Whiteway

Color Jump

Get moving with the color jump game!

1. Gather colored paper or colored paper plates.
2. Place the paper on the floor in different patterns.
3. Turn on some music and have your child jump from one color to another.
4. Keep playing with different set ups and rules (e.g., hop on one foot, don’t step on certain colors)

source: Photopin

Parade

Your preschooler will love this opportunity to get creative and be the center of attention.

1. Pick a theme for your parade (e.g., snow day, upcoming holiday, just because!)
2. Create costumes with your child for them, their siblings, stuffed animals, and you to wear during the parade.
3. Pick a great soundtrack for your parade.
4. Get dressed up and follow your preschooler around the house. Sing along to the music and pretend there is a crowd cheering you on!

The Story Comes Alive

Dramatically act out scenes from a book.

1. Have your child pick one of their favorite books.
2. Gather dress up clothes or props that you have that are related to the book. You can even work with your preschooler to make special supplies.
3. As you read the book aloud, have your child act out the most important scenes. Siblings, friends, or stuffed animals can play other characters or you can all use your imagination.

Visit the links below for more fun suggestions and ideas of physical activities for toddlers and preschoolers.