Hot Topics     Home and Family     Family Fun    

Pandemic-proof winter activities



There are more opportunities for winter fun than you think

Pandemic proof winter activities


Although there’s light at the end of the Covid tunnel, with effective vaccines in the pipeline and a second relief bill on the way, it’s all in the distance, and quite a distance at that.

Standing between the end of the pandemic and us is a long winter, one in which families will be forced to be more housebound than ever. How to keep ourselves, and our loved ones, from going stir crazy? How to stay healthy and active?

Writing for Fatherly, Emily Kelleher has some refreshing optimism and offers quite a few helpful hints on how to have fun this season, despite it all. Although her suggestions feature rules and guidelines, she’s quick to stress: “Just remember that unstructured play is also really good for kids. These winter activities are great, but don’t be afraid to tell them to go play outside or let them get bored.”

READ MORE: Ways to Adventure At Home

Her list runs the gamut from regimented to wacky. Here are some activities I can personally vouch for:

Marshmallow Fun

Put a marshmallow in the microwave and watch it quadruple in size. It’s amazing, and, once it cools off you can still eat it.

Gooey Maple Syrup  

Make maple syrup snow candy. It’s easy: boil down some maple syrup and pour it onto snow to cool and harden. It’s delicious.

Best Book Read

Read The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats. A perennial favorite from my childhood, and my now-twenty-two-year-old son’s.

Snow Trek

Take a walk through the snow, stepping in the footsteps of the person in front of you. See if you can get it to look like only one person was there. This can be a lot more fun than it sounds.

Track the Light

Observe the return of light and the lengthening of days by having kids log what time the sun sets each night. Even if they do it once a week they’ll be able to see how much time is gained.

I recommend this the most, in part because I recently realized a startling number of adults don’t actually understand that winter is the time of lengthening days. Even in the Hudson Valley, which is more rural than most regions. Impress upon a child what’s actually happening in the world around them – and beyond them – and they’ll always know.



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • 2025 Free Fishing Days in New York State

    No freshwater fishing license required to fish on designated days

    Governor Kathy Hochul has announced designated Free Fishing Days in New York will take place on: June 28-29, September 27 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day). During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters. read more »
  • Use caution when purchasing vitamins and dietary supplements

    Tips from New York State Division of Consumer Protection

    The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is warning consumers to take precautions when selecting vitamins and dietary supplements. read more »
  • Easy, Creamy Spring Goodness

    Take advantage of this early crop

    For a soup that smells as divine as it tastes, warm up your home with the fresh scents and flavors of Creamy Asparagus Soup. Pair with chicken salad croissants for a simple weeknight meal without the hassle. read more »
  • "Goodnight Moon" Stamps to be Unveiled at The Rabbit hOle

    Get yours starting May 2

    The U.S. Postal Service will unveil its Goodnight Moon stamps at The Rabbit hOle in North Kansas City, MO, on May 2 as part of an event leading up to Children’s Book Week (May 5-11). read more »
  • Preventing Child Abuse

    Five must-ask questions before enrolling your child in any activity

    As families consider before and after school programs, youth sports, and summer camps, asking the right questions can make all the difference in ensuring a secure, safe and supportive environment for your children. read more »
  • A springtime twist on classic chicken soup

    Try adding some citrusy flavor

    Chasing away those final cool days in the spring can be done in a cinch: just turn classic chicken noodle soup into a fresh, lemony meal. read more »
  • Planning for a positive economic future

    Financial literacy tips for teens

    By understanding the basics of money management, teens can make informed decisions and avoid common financial pitfalls. read more »
  • 5 facts pet parents need to know about protecting pets from heartworms

    Expert advice for you

    Heartworms are one of the most common and serious health threats faced by pets. read more »
  • Get Hooked on Fishing, Not Drugs

    Join the Annual Orange County District Attorney’s Office Youth Fishing Derby

    Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler on Tuesday,February 18, 2025, announced the launch of the fifth Orange County District Attorney’s Office Youth Fishing Derby. The Derby will run from April 1, 2025, through September 7, 2025,and is open to children between the ages of four and eighteen who are children or grandchildren of Orange County residents. read more »
  • Expand Your Menu with a Versatile Enchilada Recipe

    Get dinner on the table in under 30 minutes

    An easy recipe that can serve your family or a crowd is a perfect solution for any cookbook. Look no further than this Easy Enchilada Casserole, an ideal fit for family dinners or hosting a group when served as a dip. read more »