Winter is always my least favorite season, so I was extra worried about how it would go this year.  To be honest it hasn’t been easy, but there are a few things we have done to get through it.  I would love to hear what activities you have done to keep the winter stir crazies at bay.

Messy Play

My girls have been really into watching kids science videos and trying science experiments.  We have gone through so much vinegar and baking soda, but it’s so fun.  We have also been doing lots of sensory play.  It makes a mess, but keeps them happy for a little while so I’ll take the mess 

FaceTime

My grandmother passed away a few weeks ago, but up until then we had weekly baking with her.  This was such a fun way to connect with her and was a highlight of our week.  She used to be a music therapist, so once the food was in the oven the girls would take out instruments and they would have a sing along.  She lived in California, so FaceTime was such a blessing and allowed my girls to have such a strong relationship with her even though she lived cross the country.  We have also done many FaceTimes with other family and friends.  We have gotten creative with doing art projects together or playing board games like Guess Who and Shoots and Ladders.  Pandemic winter is isolating, but FaceTime has helped keep us connected

Ice rink

This is hands down the best pandemic investment that we have made.  My 4 year old, who started the winter not liking ice skating, now loves it.  My 8 year old, who has been doing remote school, was able to get some ice time during her lunch break.  The rink has gotten us outside much more than we usually do in winter.  The rink is really the only thing making me a little sad about it warming up outside.

We still have about another month of winter, so I would love to hear some of your ideas for keeping life interesting this winter.

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