When the snow starts to fall, people tend to hide out indoors. But you don't need to let a little snow or cold keep you from enjoying the outdoors this winter. These activities are fun for adults and kids alike.

1. Go Plogging

If you haven’t heard of plogging, don’t worry. It’s a new trend that came all the way over from Sweden. To put it succinctly, plogging is a mix of jogging and picking up garbage. In addition to being a way to stay in shape, it’s also a way to make the environment better.

You start out by going for a jog. As you pass empty water bottles, napkins, and other garbage, you pick it up. The bending helps you burn extra calories, while the practice of cleaning the environment is good for the soul. Plogging is a great way to teach your kids how important it is to take care of the world around us.

One of the best things about this practice is the fact that you already have everything you need to get started. As long as you have some warm clothing, trash bags, and plastic gloves, you can take up this new hobby. If you decide to incorporate plogging into your weekly schedule, you may want to invest in some cold weather running gear. 

2. Paint in the Snow

Looking for something to do with the huge mountain of snow made by the snow blower? Let your creativity flow free and paint a masterpiece in the snow. If your kids have been spending too much time on the couch, this activity is a great way to get them up. 

You only need a few supplies to get started with snow painting. If you don’t have any or all of the following, you can head to a dollar store and find what you need:

• Primary color food coloring
• Small spray bottles
• Bowls
• Paintbrushes
• Water

First, mix together water and food coloring in a spray bottle. Then, do the same in a bowl. Use as many spray bottles and bowls as you want colors. Take everything outside and pick your canvas. Whether you spray the snow, paint it, or use a combination of both methods, you can create an interesting work of art. 

To transform this into a learning activity, let your kids make their own colors. You can teach them how to make green, purple, and orange using the three primary colors. For added fun, have your kids build something out of the snow and then paint it. 

3. Explore in Snowshoes

Snowshoeing is an often overlooked winter activity. While it does require equipment, this activity is worth the small investment. Pick out some snowshoes for everyone in the family, and decide where to go. You don’t need to venture out of your backyard, but you might want to consider using your shoes on a hiking trail.

It doesn’t take long to figure out how to use snowshoes. Once you figure it out, you can enjoy being outside without trudging through the snow. Be sure to dress in layers, as you might get warm on a long trek. 

4. Look for Treasure

Who doesn’t love finding treasure? To make playing outside more fun in the winter, create treasure gems and hide them throughout your property. The gems are simple to make - mix together water and food coloring, then pour it into an ice cube tray. When the gems are frozen, hide them.

Only try this activity on a cold day, or the gems will melt. Of course, you can make things even more fun by doing this on a warmer day and making the kids find the gems before they melt. Regardless of their ages, your kids can enjoy the hunt. 

5. Shovel for a Neighbor

Whether you or your kids want to go outside, why not do something constructive? Shoveling for a neighbor is a great way to make a difference, feel good about yourself, and stay active. The next time the snow falls, pull out your best snow shovel and get to work on your neighbor’s driveway.

If you want to make this activity even more meaningful, don’t tell your neighbor before you shovel the snow. Let them come outside to a clear driveway, and the mystery will make the kind act even more special. Maybe they’ll pay it forward with another act of kindness.

Get Outside and Enjoy

Don’t let the cold weather keep you from being active and having fun! As long as you dress for the occasion and are safe, you can spend more of the winter outside. 

Written by Dani Gallagher

 

About the Author

Dani Gallagher is a freelance writer who loves the outdoors. She spends as much time as she can with her family going on hikes and sitting on the beach. 

 

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