December 20, 2024
by Chelsea Thomson, Communications Manager
As a mom of two children, ages 12 and 14, I know firsthand how hard it can be to get kids outside—especially during the winter. My girls would rather cozy up with their phones than brave the chilly air. But getting outside isn’t just about escaping screens; it’s about connecting with nature, moving our bodies, and making memories. And even though my kids sometimes groan at first, they always come back with smiles on their faces (and rosy cheeks!).
Here are 10 ideas to make the most of winter break and get your kids outside:
1. Build a Snow Fort
There’s nothing like channeling your inner architect to spark creativity. Gather up snow shovels, buckets, and some imagination, and create an epic snow fort or igloo together. Bonus points if you bring out a thermos of hot chocolate for breaks inside your creation!
2. Go Tobogganing at a Local Hill
Dust off those sleds and hit the slopes! Tobogganing is an easy way to get everyone laughing and moving. My kids always end up racing to see who can get the most air off a bump. Just remind them: helmets are cool!
3. Try Winter Hiking
Winter trails are magical. Start with a short hike in a forest or park, like the Friendship Trail in St. Adolphe or Bois des Esprits in Winnipeg, and marvel at how peaceful everything feels under a blanket of snow. Pack a thermos of tea or soup to make it an adventure.
4. Have a Snowy Photoshoot
If your kids are into social media or photography, encourage them to grab their phones and capture the beauty of winter. Frosty trees, snowy landscapes, and even their own silly snowman creations make for great photo ops.
5. Learn to Cross-Country Ski or Snowshoe
Head to a local park or trail system and try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Many places, like Windsor Park Nordic Centre, rent equipment and offer lessons. Or you can join us at Baudry Trail in Ste. Agathe this January. It’s a workout and a blast at the same time!
6. Host a Winter Scavenger Hunt
Create a list of winter-themed items to find, like animal tracks, pinecones, or icicles. Split into teams (or work together) to see how many you can check off during a walk in the woods or around your neighbourhood.
7. Have a Backyard Campfire
There’s nothing cozier than gathering around a fire pit with blankets and roasting marshmallows. Even if you don’t have a fire pit, you can light candles or lanterns to create a magical winter evening atmosphere.
8. Take Advantage of all the ODRs and trails.
Many neighbourhoods have community outdoor skating rinks. The Nestaweya River Trail at The Forks offers unique views and connections to different Winnipeg neighbourhoods. The city of Brandon has a large, brightly lit skating oval that includes warming shacks, portable washroom facilities, and fire pits to keep you warm while gliding through a winter wonderland.
9. Play Snow Games
Organize a snowball dodgeball match, capture the flag in the snow, or even create a snowy obstacle course. My kids love any excuse to get competitive, and these games burn off all that extra holiday energy.
Want something more educational? We have A TON of great resources on our website.
10. Watch for Wildlife
Grab some binoculars and look for birds, deer tracks, or other signs of wildlife. Winter is a great time to spot animals that might be hidden in warmer months. It’s a quiet, calming activity that helps kids appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
A Final Tip: Bundle Up!
The key to enjoying winter is staying warm. Make sure everyone layers up with a moisture-wicking base layer, warm snow pants, and a good coat, toque, and mittens. Neckwarmers and hand warmers are lifesavers on really cold days.
Getting outside every day might not seem easy, but trust me—it’s worth it. The fresh air will do wonders for your kids’ moods (and yours!). And when the screens are finally off, and they’re laughing in the snow, you’ll know it’s all been worth the effort.
Happy winter break!