Playing outside and cocooning this December

We have been fortunate to have a very mild November this year. I might be alone saying this, but I am looking forward to the colder weather and some snow in December. I love a good and snowy winter holiday season and I know my kids sure do. 😊 When you are not out playing in the snow with your little ones, cozy up inside. Welcome to the season of cocooning! 

The art of cocooning

This is a wonderful time of year for hot chocolate, board games, candles and cozying up as a family. Here are some of our favourite cocooning ideas: Curl up under a blanket with your littles ones for cuddles or story time; bake cookies or other delicious treats; build a fort out of blankets and bedding and take a flashlight under for play or story time; play hide and seek; colour; paint or do crafts; make a game out of chores or house cleaning. Most kids will love any activity if you make it fun, so be creative and use your imagination. It doesn’t need to be complicated. Focus on dedicated, quality time with your child and go from there. I am sure your child (children) will have plenty of ideas! 

Dressing for cold and snowy days

Getting outside has its challenges with littles ones. Getting them dressed warmly enough can be hard, especially at the beginning of the season. If you keep at it though, they will get more and more used to putting on all those extra layers.

Need some winter dressing tips for kids? Check out these great How to dress your kids in winter guidelines from Naître et grandir. My number one personal tip is to make sure you stay warm and dry, especially your feet. It’s hard to have a good time if you are feeling cold. Dress in layers. That way, you can always take off or add layers. Choose waterproof mittens and snow pants.

How do you play in the snow with your kids?

Not everyone is a winter person and it is not easy for everyone to get out of the house when it is chilly. I hope, however, that some of these fun activity ideas will motivate you and your children to get out and play in the snow and learn to embrace the chilly weather and rosy cheeks. 😊

Some of my family’s favourites are: Building snowmen or other snow structures, shovelling snow (little ones love this with a smaller shovel for their size), sledding, making snow angels, and taking evening walks in the snow. It doesn’t feel as dark out at night when there is bright  snow on the ground. Be sure to check out more ideas from Naître et grandir, 26 ways to enjoy winter.

Lastly, cocooning inside is even better and more appreciated when you come in from a lively winter activity, like playing in the snow or sledding. We appreciate the warmth of indoors so much more in these moments and there is nothing like rosy cheeks while sipping hot chocolate. 

Wishing you and your family a cozy December and I look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

Warm regards, 

Jessica