Winter is here, but that doesn’t mean your kids have to hibernate indoors! Even with chilly temperatures, there are plenty of ways to keep your little adventurers active and entertained outside. With the right cold-weather toys and outdoor winter gear, your kids can have a blast playing in the snow, staying warm, and getting all that energy out. So, bundle up and check out these top picks to keep your kids moving outdoors this winter!
1. Sleds and Toboggans: The Ultimate Winter Classic
Few things scream “winter fun” like sledding down a snowy hill. A sturdy sled or toboggan is a must-have for active kids who love speed and adventure. Look for ones with handles for better grip or even a steerable sled for older kids who want to feel like pros. Bonus tip: Racing up and down the hill over and over again is an amazing workout—so expect a good night’s sleep after a day of sledding!
2. Snowball Makers: Unleash the Ultimate Snowball Fight
What’s winter without a good ol’ snowball fight? Make it epic with a snowball maker! These nifty tools help create perfect snowballs in seconds, taking your kids’ snowball game to the next level. Plus, it keeps little hands warmer by minimizing the time spent handling icy snow. Perfect for getting everyone in the family involved in some friendly competition.
3. Snow Fort Kits: Build Epic Winter Castles
Turn your backyard into a winter wonderland with a snow fort kit. These come with tools to shape snow into bricks, helping your kids build everything from cozy igloos to towering castles. Not only is this a fun and creative way to enjoy the snow, but it also gets their muscles working as they pack, stack, and shape the fort. Who said winter couldn’t be a builder’s dream?
4. Stomp Rockets: High-Flying Fun, Even in Snow
Who says rockets are just for summer? Stomp rockets are a fantastic way to get your kids running, jumping, and laughing all winter long. These toys are designed to work on snowy or solid ground, making them the perfect outdoor activity. All your kids need to do is stomp on the launch pad, and watch their rockets fly high into the frosty sky. Get ready for endless races to see whose rocket goes the farthest!
5. Snowshoes: Take Winter Hikes to the Next Level
If your kids love hiking or exploring, snowshoes are the perfect way to continue their outdoor adventures even in the deep snow. Look for lightweight, kid-sized snowshoes that are easy to strap on. Snowshoeing is a fantastic full-body workout that will keep your little ones active as they trek through winter trails or even just around the backyard. Adventure awaits!
6. Winter Bicycles and Fat Tire Bikes
For the bike lovers in your family, winter doesn’t have to mean an end to cycling. Fat tire bikes are designed for snow and rugged terrain, giving kids the thrill of biking year-round. These bikes have wide tires that provide extra stability on slippery surfaces, making outdoor biking safe and fun, even in the snow. Just make sure to bundle up!
7. Ski Trainers: Start Them Young
If your kids are showing interest in skiing, start them early with a ski trainer. These sets typically include kid-friendly skis and poles that are perfect for beginners to practice balancing and gliding in the snow. You don’t need a ski resort to start—these trainers work great in parks or backyards with gentle slopes. Who knows? You might be raising the next ski champion!
8. Heated Gloves: Keep Those Hands Warm
Cold hands can turn outdoor fun into a quick trip back indoors. Keep your kids’ hands toasty with heated gloves. These magical mitts use battery-powered heat to keep fingers warm even in the chilliest conditions. Look for waterproof versions, especially for kids who love building snowmen or throwing snowballs. Warm hands mean longer playtime and happier kids!
9. Kite Flying: Winter Winds, High Spirits
Did you know winter can actually be the perfect time for kite flying? The winds are often strong, and the wide-open snow-covered fields offer ideal conditions. A durable, easy-to-fly kite can provide hours of fun as your kids chase it through the snow. Just be sure to choose a kite designed for all-weather flying, and watch it soar!
10. Portable Fire Pit: Toasty Breaks Between Play
Okay, this one’s more of an accessory than a toy, but trust us, it’s a game-changer. Set up a portable fire pit in your yard for cozy breaks between snowball fights and sledding. Bundle everyone up in blankets, roast some marshmallows, and enjoy a warm, relaxing pause before heading back out for more winter fun. It’s the perfect way to keep your kids (and you!) warm and energized.
11. Sled Scooters: Winter Scooting Fun
For kids who love scooters, sled scooters are a thrilling way to cruise through the snow! These scooters have a ski-like base instead of wheels, letting your kids glide across snowy surfaces just like they would on a regular scooter. They’re easy to steer and perfect for those flat, snowy areas where regular sledding might not be an option. Plus, they add a fun twist to your child’s regular outdoor play.
12. Snowball Slingshots: High-Flying Snowball Fights
Take your snowball fights to the next level with a snowball slingshot! This toy gives kids the ability to launch snowballs farther than ever before, turning your backyard into an all-out snowball battlefield. It’s easy to use, fun for all ages, and a fantastic way to encourage outdoor play. Just make sure to aim for friendly fire!
13. Winter Disc Golf: Snowy Target Practice
Disc golf isn’t just a summer sport! Set up a winter disc golf course in your backyard using portable baskets and brightly colored discs that stand out in the snow. This game will keep your kids active as they aim, throw, and race to collect their discs. Plus, the added challenge of snow makes it even more exciting.
14. Snow Paint Kits: Turn Your Yard into a Snowy Canvas
Get creative with snow paint kits! These fun kits allow kids to color the snow with vibrant, non-toxic paints that easily wash away. Whether they’re drawing pictures, making colorful snow castles, or writing messages in the snow, snow painting is a creative and artistic way to get them outside. It’s perfect for kids who love crafts and outdoor play.
15. Mini Snowboard for Beginners
Introduce your kids to snowboarding with a mini snowboard! These boards are perfect for kids who want to try out snowboarding without needing to hit the slopes. They’re lightweight, easy to balance on, and great for practicing in the backyard or at the park. Who knows? This could be the start of your kid’s snowboarding passion!
16. Snow Tube Carousel: Spinning Snow Fun
Turn your snowy backyard into an amusement park with a snow tube carousel! Attach a large snow tube to a central pole (or an adult who’s willing to spin them around) and let your kids enjoy endless laughter as they spin, slide, and twirl in the snow. It’s the perfect way to add a carnival-like twist to their winter fun.
17. Winter Cornhole: Snowy Target Fun
Bring your favorite backyard game into the snow with winter cornhole! Cornhole boards designed for winter are waterproof and easy to set up on top of the snow. Kids can practice their aim and toss, all while running around in the fresh air. It’s a great option for friendly family competitions or snowy-day playdates.
18. Glow-in-the-Dark Sleds and Toys
Make winter play magical with glow-in-the-dark sleds and toys! As the sun sets earlier in winter, glow-in-the-dark toys make playing outside in the evening even more fun. From glowing sleds to snowball makers that light up, these toys keep the excitement going after dark, so your kids can sled or play snowball fights even under the stars.
Gear Up for Outdoor Winter Fun!
With the right outdoor winter gear and cold-weather toys, winter can be just as fun as summer when it comes to keeping your kids active. Whether they’re sledding down a hill, building a snow fort, or flying rockets into the frosty sky, these toys and tools will help your little ones make the most of the season. So bundle them up, gear them up, and let the winter adventures begin!
Don’t let the cold keep your kids cooped up indoors. With these exciting cold-weather toys and gear, your family will have plenty of reasons to embrace the chilly months while staying active and having fun!
