Winter School Holiday Ideas: Fun, Educational & Easy to Do at Home

The winter school holidays are the perfect time to slow down, rug up and enjoy some cosy, creative moments with your little one. Whether you’re at home or out exploring, there are so many ways to keep young children learning through play — without screens or stress.

Here are some fun, low-pressure winter holiday activities that nurture curiosity, creativity and connection:

1. Nature Walk + Scavenger Hunt

Even in winter, there’s so much to discover outdoors! Head to a local park or reserve and take a short walk together.
Create a simple scavenger hunt list like:

  • A leaf bigger than your hand

  • Something soft

  • A bird’s call

  • A puddle

  • Something green

This encourages observation, movement and vocabulary-building — plus it’s great for burning energy!

2. Winter Story Time & Puppet Shows

Set up a cosy reading corner with blankets, cushions and warm drinks. Choose some winter-themed books (like We're Going on a Bear Hunt or The Snowy Day), and after reading, act out the story with:

  • Sock puppets

  • Simple paper masks

  • Or even your hands and voices!

Storytelling builds language skills and imagination — and puppet play helps develop fine motor control and social understanding.

3. Homemade Playdough with a Winter Twist

Make a batch of scented playdough together (try adding cinnamon or vanilla for a cosy scent).
Provide tools like cookie cutters, sticks, shells, or leaves to press into the dough. You can also:

  • Roll little snowmen

  • Create “winter animals”

  • Or make pretend hot chocolates or cookies for a teddy bear tea party.

This kind of tactile play supports sensory development and creativity.

4. Mini Science: Ice Exploration

Fill small containers with water and freeze overnight. Add natural items (like leaves or petals) for extra interest.
Then, offer tools like spoons, salt, warm water or droppers to help your child “rescue” the objects from the ice.

They’ll learn about temperature, melting and cause-and-effect — all through play.

5. Bake & Learn Together

Choose simple recipes like banana muffins or pikelets and let your child help with measuring, stirring and pouring.
Baking teaches:

  • Early maths (counting, measuring)

  • Fine motor skills

  • Following steps and routines

Plus, you get a delicious reward at the end!

6. Create a Winter Art Gallery

Set up an art station with crayons, paper, cotton wool, paint, glue and recycled materials. Create winter scenes or open-ended art.
Hang the artwork with string and pegs to create a “gallery” at home — invite family members for a tour!

Art builds confidence, self-expression and motor development.

Keep it Simple, Keep it Joyful

The best holiday activities don’t require expensive materials or complicated plans. The goal is connection — with a sprinkle of learning and a whole lot of fun.

Let your child lead the way, follow their interests, and make room for slow, playful moments this winter. You’ll be surprised what they remember most.

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