Let’s face it, the first snow day of the year is filled with squeals of glee, motivation to get out into the frigid cold, and making the most elaborate hot chocolates one can think of, but if you’re anything like me, by the time the next two or three days of snow come, you’re over the fun. The winter gear starts to take over the entryway or fill in the mudroom, while putting on one more set of gloves seems like another battle you don’t want to face. Some new ideas of how to survive another snowy day might just be in order. So let us, at Indianapolis Moms, do the heavy lifting and plan your day for you. Minimal effort. I promise.
Morning Agenda
It’s probably too cold to go outside at this point in the day, so start your day with a few educational shows to ease into the day. After the shows are over, have them color their favorite part of the show or write an alternative ending to the show. This time saver may help you drink your coffee hot for once.
Next up on your list is braving the battle of winter gear. After you wrestle your toddler to the ground to try to get their tiny, awkward feet into their boots and find the missing thumb in their mittens, it’s time to go out to play in the snow. But with an agenda. As your kids frolic in the snow, excited to spend their morning doing all the stereotypical snow activities, put out a big, clean bowl to catch fresh snow. While you’re collecting snow, it’s time to go out and do some painting. Use real paint or try some homemade watercolors if you’re feeling adventurous.
Now, head inside with that freshly collected snow. It’s time for a morning snack of snow ice cream. Have your kids help mix the ingredients, then enjoy immediately or save for a snack later. Finish up your morning with your usual lunch favorites, or try some new ones to mix up your lunch game. Bonus: throw a blanket on the floor and have a simple picnic as you eat your lunch together.
Afternoon Agenda
After you’ve successfully completed your morning snow day activities, it’s time to take some time to warm up inside. Try playing a few board games in front of the fire, reading a book together under a warm blanket, or building the coolest Lego City that may keep them entertained for more than 5 minutes. When everyone is up for another adventure outside, load that gear up again (don’t worry, it gets easier as they get older), and let’s move on to the next new activity.
Time to include some learning and science into the day. Put some water in balloons and set them outside to freeze in the cold temperatures. As the balloons do their magic, try making some bubbles and blowing them outside. Make predictions about what will happen and watch the bubbles freeze in the cold.
After learning and science come to a close, the best way to complete the snow day fun is with a great big steaming cup of hot chocolate. Try adding some mix-ins like the tride and true marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, and even some chocolate or caramel syrup. Don’t forget about our local places to find hot cocoa bombs, too, for a simple and fun way to enjoy the yummy drink.
As the day is coming to a close and the witching hour is approaching, hopefully, the kids will be ready for some chill independent time. If not, think about checking out some other indoor winter activities or new STEM toys for days that you know inside entertainment will be a necessity.
