4 kids riding snow tubes in the snow.

Snow days can be a magical time for kids, full of endless possibilities for fun and adventure. Yet for some communities, they aren’t quite what they used to be with some schools opting for a virtual learning day. So if you’re one of the lucky ones who do get the entire day off, it’s something you want to take full advantage of.

As for parents, it can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you still have to fit your workday in using the ease of home technology. Let us here at Ocean State Job Lot give you some ideas to keep your little ones entertained and engaged on a snowy day:

A parent and a child make snow angels together.

Embrace the Outdoors

Here’s where you have to maintain that work/school life balance if the day isn’t a complete snow day. Certain parts of your day will require different needs, whether it be meetings, deadlines, or something pressing, so keep that in mind when making plans.

Build a Snow Fortress: Gather snow and construct a fort together. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate. You can keep it as simple as you’d like and gather some supplies like shovels you may have from Job Lot to decorate it.

Have a Snowball Fight: It’s a tradition that’s tried and true to a snow day and you don’t need a lot of time or people. Divide into teams from the family or invite a few friends and neighbors for a fun free-for-all.

Make Snow Angels: Who doesn’t like making a beautiful snow angel? The only downside is that it can be cold laying on the snow so bundle up.

Go Sledding: If you have the time built in for lunch or have the day completely free, find a safe hill and enjoy the thrill of the ride, whether it be on a sled, tube, or snow saucer. Just like when you’re making snow angels, dress warm with hats, gloves, and scarves. Pack a few hand, body, and toe warmers as well from Job Lot.

Have a Winter Picnic: Pack a thermos of drinks, hot cocoa, and some snacks, and enjoy a picnic in the snow. Take a blanket with you just in case there’s not a table where you are going to sit.

A family does a puzzle while it snows outside.

Six Indoor Activities to Beat Boredom

Board Games and Puzzles: Break out the board games and puzzles for some family fun.

Arts and Crafts: Get creative with winter-themed crafts like making snowflakes, snowmen, or winter landscapes.

Indoor Fort Building: Use blankets, pillows, and chairs to create a cozy fort.

Bake Winter Treats: Make cookies, cakes, or hot chocolate.

Read Books: Curl up with a good book by the fireplace.

Watch Winter-Themed Movies: Snuggle up on the couch and watch classic winter movies or TV shows.

A child doing a science experiment with snow.

Fun Educational Opportunities

Learn About Winter: Read books about winter animals, weather, and the science of snow.

Do Winter-Themed Science Experiments: Make ice crystals, test freezing points, or create a homemade snow globe.

Write Winter Stories: Encourage your kids to write stories about winter adventures. Keep them in a journal or notebook to go back and read on another snowy day.

More Tips for a Successful Snow Day

Dress Warmly: Make sure everyone is dressed in warm, waterproof clothing.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially when you’re active outdoors.

Take Breaks: If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, take breaks to warm up inside.

Be Safe: Always supervise children when they’re playing in the snow.

Have Fun: Most importantly, relax and enjoy the snow day with your family.

By following these tips and ideas, you can make your snow day a memorable one for your family. Remember, the most important thing is to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.