The winter chill has well and truly set in, keeping us all cooped inside – which can spell disaster for parents of high-energy kids. But there are ways to keep the little ones entertained over these cold months. Get started with these great ideas for loads of indoor fun.

Create a campsite in the lounge

You don’t need to go to the bush to experience camping. Use chairs, sheets, blankets and pegs to make a tent inside. Add sleeping bags and have an overnight camping experience with your child. Remember to allow him or her to help you – it’s all part of the fun. Invite your child to bring some of his or her favourite items to camp. These could be colouring books, toy cars, dolls or stuffed toys.

Cook or bake together

Use simple, age-appropriate recipes to teach your child to cook or bake. Allow him or her to mix batter, stir pots (under supervision!) or roll out dough. You can place the baking tray in the oven, cut vegetables and use the electric mixer. Your child will love working with you and seeing the end result.

Do arts and crafts

Paint, knit or make toys out of newspaper. For example, you can allow your toddler to tear off newspaper pages and crumple it into a ball. You can play an indoor sport with it – think soccer or catch. It’s a great way for your child to break the rules without actually breaking the rules.

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Header photo by Rustic Vegan on Unsplash