Here in Aus, it's winter, and although we have generally good weather on the Gold Coast it can get very cold and hard to get outdoors for play.
I've put together a few of Mahli + Harlow's fave things to do at home to give you some ideas, not just for holidays but great for weekends.
Treasure Hunt
Hide a favourite toy in the house - give them clues to find it. For kids that are a bit older, draw a treasure map they have to follow around the house.
Have a Picnic
- grab a rug or blanket
- put a plate of healthy snacks together
- my kids still ask for picnic in the backyard!
Play Dress Ups
- If you don't have costumes, pull out some of your old clothes that they can dress up in.
- Kids can get creative with their costumes.
- gives you a good idea of their interests, e.g my son loves dresses!
Science Experiments
- google science experiments for home
- most experiments will use household ingredients and the kids love it!
Puzzles
Puzzles have become a great way for us all to spend time together as a family. The kids and my husband currently have a 1000 piece puzzle going at the moment!
Arts n Crafts
We have accumulated a lot of craft supplies over the years! But to keep it basic, grab some washable paints, make some play dough + get some big pavement chalk. The kids can draw anywhere, and hose it off later!
Indoor Obstacle Course
Use cushions, chairs, and blankets to create an obstacle course in the living room. Time the kids as they go through it and encourage them to beat their own times.
Baking Together
- Choose a simple recipe like cookies or cupcakes.
- Let the kids help with measuring and mixing.
- Decorate the baked goods together and enjoy a sweet treat!
Story Time Marathon
- Pick a series of books or a long story.
- Create a cosy reading nook with blankets and pillows.
- Spend the afternoon reading together, taking turns if your kids are old enough to read too.
DIY Movie Theatre
- Choose a family favourite movie.
- Make some popcorn and set up a cosy seating area.
- Dim the lights and enjoy a movie night at home.
Indoor Gardening
- Start a small indoor herb garden.
- Let the kids help with planting seeds and watering the plants.
- Teach them about the importance of taking care of plants.
Board Game Bonanza
- Pull out a variety of board games and have a game day.
- Let each family member choose a game to play.
- Keep score and see who the ultimate board game champion is!
Have an Indoor Disco
- pop up your Mahalo Eco Blinds
- put on some kid friendly music, we love Kidz Bop on Spotify
- use torches to create disco lights, or even pop some cellophane over the end for some colour!