Free Winter Fun with the Kids

Kids love to have their parents undivided attention, so this winter, plan to do activities together. They will love to see your playful side and you will have fun too. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Do a jigsaw together

Jigsaw puzzles are something that all the family can enjoy - and it is so satisfying to put in the final piece. They are also a great opportunity to improve your child’s physical skills. Kids can develop fine motor skills through the coordination of small muscles, helping them to master writing, drawing and even learning to play instruments. Picking up pieces and matching jigsaw pieces together improves spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination too. If you don’t already have a jigsaw at home, you may be able to pick one up at a charity shop.

Get crafty together

This is a great activity to use old magazines, papers, loo rolls, tins, elastic bands – in other words, things you probably already have in your house. The ‘must haves’ are glue, coloured pens or paints. Old clothes are important too as things are going to get messy. Working on a craft project together with your child can help improve their teamwork, communication and social skills, as they will have to learn to co-operate and communicate to complete their projects. Embrace your creative side to make memories that will last much longer than the masterpieces themselves.

Draw and colour pictures

A slightly less messy activity than crafting, but no less educational. Younger kids might have a colouring book to match their interests and abilities. You can help make the activity even more engaging by asking questions such as “how many animals are on this page?” or “how many different colours did we use?” Older children can create and colour their own pictures, which will help to nurture their creativity - and yours.

Write letters for loved ones

This can be a lovely activity, for you, your children, and the lucky recipient. Letter writing is an essential skill. Encouraging children to write letters from an early age will improve their communication, social and handwriting skills, and teach them what they need to know about writing and structuring letters. Encourage them to think about what they really love about a person - you may get some surprising answers. Then they can draw a special picture, or write a letter, depending on their ability. Make sure that you deliver them - either by hand if you live nearby or popping them into the postbox.