Making Winter Memories with Children

by Kelly Miller

Now that we are in the Holiday season, I have been thinking about the memories I have made with my children and the children I have nannied for over the years.  Most people do not remember the gifts they received in years past, but the experiences!  Here are some memorable ideas to do with children this season.

One activity I did every year (for 5 years!) with one of my nanny families was making Snowballs.  Even my boss would get excited when I said it was Snowball Day!  This is a simple idea for young children.  We would simply insert a straw into a large marshmallow, dip the marshmallow in chocolate or almond bark, and then pile on the sprinkles!  These were easy to display in a large glass.

Take advantage of the snow!  I have helped many children decorate their yards with snowpaint.  It is easy to fill a spray bottle with water and food coloring. 

Put together a basket with holiday books.  Go to the library and browse your own books.  I have found that if the books are not together, it is easy to end the holiday season without reading them.  This is an easy way to get the children excited about reading!

One thing I do every year at home is have a basket with holiday craft supplies.  Ribbons, stickers, foam shapes, glitter, glue, sequins, etc. are great for boosting a child's imagination.  Every year I put the basket away after the holiday season, and it is ready to go for the next year!  I often buy the supplies on sale after the holiday, so it is ready to pull out the following year. 

What are you doing to make winter memories with your children?