Entertaining Restless Kids in Winter

As a mom of three boys, I know us adults aren't the only ones who experience the winter blues. My kids are right there with me, my little weather forecasters, looking out the window and giving me the current update on the latest snowfall even when I'd rather close all the curtains and pretend like it's not happening. I know I am not the only stay-at-home mom wondering what to do to keep my kids entertained and keep arguments and fussiness to a minimum during the winter months.

First and foremost, just because you can't safely get the car out of the driveway, don't let that stop you from getting outside. Kids, particularly the youngest, love to be outside and most of them don't care if it's warm or cold. Each season brings new adventures and new reasons to explore. Don't underestimate the power of building a snowman or a snow cabin followed up by a warm cup of hot cocoa. My children get great enjoyment out of the child-sized shovels my husband bought them at the start of the season. We may be sick of shoveling but the kids never grow tired of it. You probably won't get them to effectively clear the sidewalk but you can keep them busy while you do and that is worth almost as much.

Unfortunately, not every day offers opportunities to get outside and even when it does, it's too cold to stay out for long, especially for the little ones. That leaves plenty of time during the day for boredom to set in. There never seem to be enough indoor activities to keep the kids occupied and while the TV is an attractive option, too much often leads to bigger feelings of lethargy and despair. This is where creativity comes into play not just for you but for the kids as well. Painting, coloring, or making creative projects are traditional ways to keep kids occupied and definitely have their place. Try the Web site http://resources.kaboose.com/parents/links/printable-worksheets/printable-worksheets.html for printing fun worksheets.

When the paint dries up, try something a little more unique. For example, have you ever considered getting a pen pal for your child? There are numerous resources online for finding traditional snail mail correspondents of your child's age and gender in other countries across the globe. This is not only a fun way to practice literacy skills but also offers your child a means to trade interesting things such as stamps and postcards. And who doesn't love to get a personal letter in the mail? International Pen Friends has been around for a long time and is one reputable source. (http://www.ipfusa.com) Don't just stick to writing, either, taping a message can be just as much fun.

And just because the sun isn't shining today, don't let that stop you from planting a garden. Many herbs grow well in an indoor window box. They grow quickly and serve other uses such as in cooking or creative pursuits making potpourris or other such items. Research your plants online with the kids and help them plan, plant, and care for their new indoor garden.

Don't forget about books, games, and music. All of these activities have great kid appeal. Plan cooking or baking items that your kids where your kids can have a helping hand, if not accomplish it themselves. Get to know your neighbors, particularly those with children of similar ages to your own and schedule play dates. Even a change in environment for a few hours can do wonders for your children's moods.

If all else fails, don't despair. Tomorrow is always a new day and another day closer to brighter days and summer picnics.