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The minute snow starts falling, I’m usually the first one bundled up and heading out the door. I love being outside in the snow. Sledding, snowshoeing, riding the four-wheeler or just soaking in the quiet that comes with a snowy morning. There is something about cold air that completely revives my spirit.
That said, I also know not everyone feels the same way, and for some, the thought of getting out in the snow sounds like a great way to ruin your day. Snow days in Arkansas also often mean schools are closed, kids are home, and parents are trying to figure out how to fill the hours and survive the snowstorm without losing their minds. Whether you’re all about cozying up indoors or just need a break after the novelty of the snow wears off, these mostly indoor snow day activities are perfect for passing the time. A few do call for a quick step outside, but nothing that requires a full afternoon in the cold. Save them for later in the day or enjoy them right from the start when cabin fever starts to creep in.
Snow Day Activities for Kids (Mostly Indoors)
Paper Snowflakes
This one never gets old. Grab a piece of paper, fold it a few times, and let kids cut along the folded edges. Each paper snowflake will be unique and beautiful. Tape them to windows or string them together for an instant winter decoration.
Build a Snowman Without the Snow
If the snow is icy, slushy, or just not cooperating, make a snowman indoors instead. Cotton balls, white socks filled with rice, paper plates, or even marshmallows work great. Pull out the box of craft supplies and add buttons, scarves and googly eyes to turn your kitchen table into a winter wonderland. If you are feeling extra adventurous, give your kids a roll of toilet paper to turn a sibling (or a parent) into a snowman!
Snowflake Loose Parts
Loose parts are simple, everyday materials, either natural or man-made, that kids can move around, mix together and use however they want. There’s no right or wrong way to play with them. My snowflake loose parts bins contain various beads and pipe cleaners that my son can use to create all kinds of different snowflakes.
Indoor “Snow” Sensory Bin
Perfect for younger kids. Fill a plastic bin with baking soda, cornstarch, rice, or shredded paper. Add scoops, cups, toy animals or little trucks. It keeps hands busy and gives kids that snow day feel without wet mittens scattered all over the house.
Homemade Snow Dough
Mix 2 cups of flour, ½ cup of oil, and a ½ tablespoon of salt to create a soft, moldable “snow.” Kids can build mini snowmen, igloos or whatever their imagination comes up with. This is a great one for extended play while parents sip coffee and pretend they’re still on a school schedule.
Snow Day Board Games or Puzzles
Declare a family game day. Let each kid pick a game and spend the day around the kitchen table, not in front of a screen. This feels special and gives the day some structure without feeling like school. We’re also big fans of puzzles and always have a puzzle on the end of the kitchen table. Everyone can stop and place a few pieces as they go about their day.
Indoor Snowball Fight
Crumple up white socks, yarn balls or paper into “snowballs” and let the kids have at it. Set boundaries, such as staying in one room or aiming below the shoulders. It’s high energy, zero cold and burns off some of that snow day excitement.
Hot Cocoa Bar
Set out cocoa mix, marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, and chocolate chips. Kids can build their own mug and feel very fancy about it. My dark chocolate maple hot cocoa is my favorite recipe. Serve with snow ice cream for a real snow day treat.
Winter Story Time or Read-Aloud Hour
Pull out winter-themed books or favorite chapter books and read together on the couch. Add blankets, pillows or build a blanket fort and pull up your favorite winter ambiance videos on YouTube. Snow days are made for slowing down, and this one always feels cozy.
Bring the Snow Indoors
Yes, I am being serious. One of my favorite snow day activities when my son was young was filling the bathtub with snow. We used a bucket and toted in several loads of snow, then put him in some snowpants, gloves and boots and let him play with cars and other toys. He stayed warm while still enjoying the fun. When he was done, the snow simply melted down the drain.
A Few Snow Activities That Only Need a Minute Outside
Freezing Bubbles
When temperatures drop to 20 degrees or lower, grab that bottle of bubbles leftover from summer and step outside for a few minutes. When you blow bubbles, they slowly freeze and crack, looking especially beautiful in the sun.
Snowman Building, If Conditions Allow
If the snow is packable, head out to build a snowman. Add a spare scarf, gloves and a hat to finish him off. Arkansas snow can be unpredictable, but even a lopsided snowman still counts as a win.
Snow Painting
Fill squeeze bottles or spray bottles with water and a few drops of food coloring. Use them to paint pictures in the snow. It’s quick, colorful, and works even if the snow isn’t great for sledding.
Short Winter Nature Walk
Bundle up and take a slow walk around the yard or down the driveway. Look for animal tracks, icy branches, or snow piled on fences and trees. This is less about distance and more about noticing things you don’t usually see. If you are interested in spending a little more time out and about but don’t want to play in the snow, check out these ways to Enjoy Winter in Arkansas.
Snow days don’t have to mean boredom or endless screen time. Whether you bundle up for a few minutes outside or stay warm indoors all day, these simple activities help make the most of an unexpected day at home. Pick a few favorites or do them all. Sometimes the best snow day memories are made long after everyone has come back inside to warm up.
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