The countdown is on until Winter Break for kids everywhere.  Although the kids are thrilled about 2 weeks off from school, it will only be a matter of time until you start hearing the words “I’m bored!” Don’t panic parents—I’ve got plenty of fun ideas for you to keep things interesting for the kiddos during Winter Break and beyond.  And the best part is all the projects are easy and for kids of all ages.

Pinecone Bird Feeders

This project is not only super easy, it’s good for nature. Simply collect pinecones (which can be its own adventure!), lay down old newspaper or a tablecloth, using popsicle sticks or a paint brush, cover the pinecone in peanut butter or Sun Butter (peanut & tree nut free).  Fill a plate with bird seed and roll the pinecones in the birdseed. When dried, use grosgrain ribbon or baker’s twine and make a loop to hang the pinecones from a tree.  This project is perfect for ages 2+.

DIY Snow Paint

Before you head out to play in the snow, don’t forget to make some DIY snow paint to take along with you. All you need is inexpensive spray bottles, food coloring (regular or gel) and water. Fill the spray bottles with water, add in a good amount of food coloring (this might take an entire bottle depending on how intense you want the color), put the lid back on and shake. Then turn that plain, old white snow into a beautiful master piece.

Popsicle Stick Snow Flakes

This little project can be as simple or advanced as you’d like, depending on the age of your children. All you need is popsicle sticks (any size or color), Elmer’s Glue, gems/sequins, glitter glue or glitter (if you’re feeling courageous). Glue together 3 popsicle sticks in the shape of a snowflake and allow to dry. Next add your bling to make the snowflakes unique and extra special. When complete, hang with string like baker’s twine.

Shivery Snow Slime

To cold to play outside? Make your own snow fun indoors with silvery snow slime. This snow slime is icy cold to the touch and sparkly white, making it a sure winner with your kiddos. Mix 2 cups of white school glue with 1 ½ cups of very warm water.  Add in some iridescent glitter and a few drops of peppermint extract to give the snow slime a wintery scent. In a second bowl, mix ¾ teaspoon of Borax and 1 1/3 cup of very warm water. Mix the ingredients in both bowls well, then mix the 2 bowls together.  Work together with your hands until the slime forms. Store in a zip lock bag in the fridge to keep the slime cold like snow.

Have fun & enjoy your winter!

Julie McCaffrey

Bio for Julie McCaffrey

Parenting expert Julie McCaffrey is a proud mommy to 3 kids and owns BabyNav Baby Planners where she offers personalized consultation to new and expecting parents along with functioning as the Chief Brand Officer at PishPoshBaby.com—the high-quality baby store that supplies the facts and advice, along with the right choice, to parents who are completely lost in the whirlwind of baby gear. She loves to help moms and dads navigate everything from baby gear, preparing for multiples, getting back to work and getting the whole family on a routine.

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