4 Winter Activities For Families to Enjoy

Spending time outdoors is hugely beneficial for children, particularly younger ones, but many families feel like their options are limited during the winter months. Gone are the days of shorts, t-shirts and sunbathing on the beach, but that doesn’t mean families can’t still enjoy a fun day out, especially while on vacation. In this guide, we cover some of the top ways family travelers can encourage their kids to spend more time outdoors this winter.

Go Quad Biking

Although quad biking (aka four-wheeling) might seem intimidating, there’s no need to worry as it’s designed to accommodate almost everyone. Of course, it might not work out for toddlers, but it can be great fun for families with slightly older children. Travelers can race against each other for some healthy competition, or simply follow the path as a group. Looking to plan a vacation around this exhilarating activity? Places like the Arctic Circle, Europe and Finland are all popular spots to embrace the winter sport.

Participants are dressed in protective gear that’s sure to keep them warm, and providing the weather isn’t too extreme, quad biking is an activity that is both fun and safe during the winter.

Follow Scavenger Hunts

Scavenger hunts can be done all year round and can be customized to fit any family. Unlike some other activities, any snow can actually be used to players’ advantage, plus, they’re a great way to get acquainted with a new city. Travelers can create their own simple hunt or seek out more complex ones that they can do as a family. Either way, this activity is sure to keep kids entertained for hours.

Families can keep younger children engaged by asking them questions about their surroundings. What do they see? What are they thinking? What do marks in the snow look like? Exploring nature is a valuable sensory experience, and travelers will love wrapping up warm and getting their outside hours.

Find a Sledding Hill

Those who live somewhere with, or who are voyaging to, a place that gets snow will find that hunting for the perfect sledding hill is sure to tempt children to go outside. Sleds are easy to find, or creative travelers can even make their own (as long as they’re safe). Nearby fields and grassy slopes make for the ultimate sledding spot – bonus points to anyone who finds a spot that’s untouched.

Sledding is a recipe for some simple, genuine, family fun. Older children can take it in turns or go down together, but travelers should make sure to accompany younger kids to stay on the safe side.

Explore Local Attractions

Those looking to embrace a staycation might consider researching interesting sites in their local area – you might be surprised by what you find. A visit to a local castle, a children’s museum, a beautiful park or a new restaurant is a great way to enjoy a day out but also squeeze in some culture. Many attractions are prepared to entertain kids and may even provide activity packs, helping them learn whilst still having fun.

Winter doesn’t mean that families can’t enjoy some quality time outside, it’s just about finding the activities that work best for you and your family. Whether it’s quad biking or visiting castles, whatever tempts children to spend more time outdoors is definitely worth investing time in.