Bored With Old Man Winter? Inside Activities and Games for the Family

In Central Indiana, sometimes winter days are just too cold to spend outside. So, grab your cup of cocoa and check out these tips for spending a cozy, fun day indoors.

An Indoor Snowball Fight

Don’t let a heavy snowstorm keep you from having a snowball fight. When the weather is bad and temps are low, take the game inside! Drop those video game controllers and roll up a few pairs of socks or balls of paper towels. Divvy up into teams and start tossing! Furniture makes for great hiding spots. (Just be careful of the china cabinet!)

A Scavenger Hunt

One of the easiest and most effective medicines for cabin fever also keeps children mentally and physically active. Start your scavenger hunt with a few easy clues and gradually add to the challenge. Once the final riddle is solved, have it lead to a treasure chest packed full of treats for the winners.

A Movie Night (or Day)

If your family prefers a quieter time, get comfy in your pjs and watch some of your favorite, classic flicks. There are countless winter and holiday-themed films the entire family will love. If just the kids are watching, help them build a fort in the den, and dress it up with Christmas lights and sleeping bags for some extra holiday, imaginative fun.

A Paper Bag Puppet Show

Speaking of sleeping bags, this idea works well with larger groups, like a kids sleepover. Divide the participants into teams (or solo acts) and give them each paper lunch bags filled with construction materials like markers, scissors, and glue, along with props including bottle cleaners and ribbons. Allow each team about 15 or 20 minutes to construct their puppets and come up with a skit, and then act them out in front of the group. There are no winners here; instead, everyone gets a chance to be uniquely creative and a little goofy, too.

Classic Board Games, Puzzles, or Cards

While the snow is falling and the kids are at home, pass the time with classic board games and challenging puzzles. Drop the iphones, laptops, and tablets and pull out Monopoly or Clue! Put together a 100, then 500, then 1000 piece puzzle! Or, bring out the playing cards and start a tournament. All of the above will keep the kiddos busy for hours at a time.

A Snowman Snacks & Hot Cocoa Bar

If you’re like us, baking beats even the most miserable winter day. Forget bathing suit weather … this is the best time of year to treat your sweet tooth. From gingerbread and snowman-shaped cookies to yummy peppermint fudge, there’s a holiday treat out there that will satisfy everyone.This year, take your kitchen game up a notch and host a hot cocoa bar. Just like salads and bloody marys, provide a bit of everyone’s favorite toppings. How about:
  • Marshmallows
  • Chocolate chips
  • Sprinkles
  • Whipped cream
  • Caramel
  • Candy canes
  • Pretzel rods
  • Biscotti
  • Cookie crumbles
  • Rolled wafers/Pirouettes
  • Bailey’s and/or Kahlua (for the adults)
Whether you’re warming up with cocoa or winding down with a movie, there’s plenty to do to keep you and your family busy all winter long. If you’re ready to venture out into the wintery weather, be sure to read our guide to outdoor winter activities or our winter checklist with 40 fun activities for Indiana families. As always, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information on getting a healthy lawn come springtime!