Cozy Winter Fun: 5 Indoor Activities for Toddlers and Babies

When the weather outside is frightful, keeping toddlers and babies entertained indoors CAN be delightful! (Cheesy, I know! But it’s true!) Winter months are the perfect time to engage in creative, cozy activities that support sensory development, fine and gross motor skills, and strengthen parent-child bonding. Here are five indoor activities for toddlers and babies to make your winter days more fun!

Sensory Snow Play

Recreate the magic of snow without the cold. Fill a shallow tray with flour or baking soda to mimic the texture of snow. Add small toys, scoops, and containers to encourage exploration.

• Why it works:
  • Promotes sensory exploration and motor development.
  • Helps babies and toddlers practice grasping and scooping.

• Tips:
  • For babies: Let them touch and feel the “snow” with close supervision.
  • For toddlers: Hide small items like toy animals or beads in the “snow” for a fun treasure hunt. Add spoons and cups to practice scooping and pouring.

Indoor Obstacle Course

Set up a simple obstacle course using pillows, blankets, furniture, and toys. Create challenges like crawling under a table, hopping over cushions, or climbing onto a sturdy couch cushion “mountain.”

• Why it works:
  • Builds gross motor skills and coordination.
  • Encourages problem-solving and active play.

• Tips:
  • For babies: Use soft, low surfaces for tummy time or crawling challenges.
  • For toddlers: Add instructions like “crawl like a bear” or “jump like a bunny” for extra fun.

Winter Art Station

Set up a winter-themed art station with paper, washable paints, and safe craft supplies. Use sponges shaped like snowflakes, cotton balls for “snow,” or blue and white colors for a frosty theme.

• Why it works:
  • Encourages creativity and fine motor development.
  • Offers a tactile sensory experience through different materials.

• Tips:
  • For babies: Opt for finger painting with edible, baby-safe paint.
  • For toddlers: Introduce simple stamping or glueing activities with supervision.

Cozy Blanket Forts

Transform your living room into a cozy fort using blankets, cushions, and fairy lights. Bring in books, soft toys, and even snacks for an indoor picnic.

• Why it works:
  • Promotes imaginative play and bonding.
  • Provides a calming sensory retreat for babies and toddlers who may feel overstimulated.

• Tips:
  • For babies: Use soft lighting and play soothing music or nursery rhymes inside the fort for a relaxing sensory experience.
  • For toddlers: Encourage pretend play by turning the fort into a “camping trip” or “castle” to spark their imagination.

DIY Indoor Snowball Games

Create soft “snowballs” using balled-up socks or plush toys. Use them for games like snowball toss into a laundry basket or a friendly indoor snowball fight.

• Why it works:
  • Encourages physical activity and hand-eye coordination.
  • Helps release energy on days when outdoor play isn’t possible.

• Tips:
  • For babies: Place the “snowballs” within reach to encourage grabbing and throwing.
  • For toddlers: Add challenges like aiming at a target or balancing on one foot while throwing.

Extra Tips for Winter Indoor Fun

Adapt to Sensory Preferences: If your child is sensitive to textures or noise, simplify activities or choose quieter, softer materials.

Create Predictable Routines: Plan these activities at the same time each day to provide structure during long winter months.

Stay Flexible: Follow your child’s lead—if an activity doesn’t engage them, adapt or switch it up to match their interests.

Winter days may be chilly, but they offer countless opportunities for indoor fun and quality bonding time. By incorporating these engaging activities, you’ll not only keep your toddler or baby entertained but also support their developmental milestones in creative and joyful ways.

Which activity will you try first? Share your cozy indoor adventures with us on Facebook or Instagram!