Get Crafty This Winter: Outdoor Activities for Families

At OutGrown, we know that getting outside doesn’t always mean a long hike or a big adventure. Sometimes, it’s about stepping into your backyard, finding inspiration in the season, and making time for outdoor creativity. These winter activities are designed to bring fun, connection, and a happy mess!

Ice Block Building

While some may dream of building a full-size igloo, pint-size ice building is a creative and accessible way for you to engage with nature using materials they already have at home.

1. Begin by freezing water into various shapes and sizes—think ice cubes, small cake tins, cookie cutters, or any molds you have on hand.

2. Once frozen, head outside and pop all the ice shapes out.

3. Let the kids loose! They can build and decorate an ice cake (bonus points for nature decorations collected from the yard), use toy hammers for some construction fun, or try to build a mini igloo.

Frozen Ornaments

To make these frozen ornaments, have your child grab a basket and collect biodegradable treasures nature has left behind—like evergreen needles, berries, and dried leaves. This is a great way to create seasonal decor while respecting the environment.

1. Grab an old muffin tin and have your little one fill each cup with the collected treasures.

2. Drop in pre-cut loops of string or yarn for future hanging.

3. Fill each muffin cup with water, ensuring the treasures are submerged halfway.

4. Freeze outside if the weather permits, or place the tray in your freezer overnight.

5. To remove the ornaments, run some hot water on the back of the tin to loosen them. Then, head outside to decorate your porch or a tree and enjoy the sunlight shining through your beautiful creations.

Snow Volcano!

Transform your backyard into a winter science lab! Snow volcanos are a fun way to combine outdoor play with curiosity and learning, giving your child a hands-on experience with nature.

1. Have your little one build a big snow mound outside, pack it tight, and shape it into a mini-mountain.

2. Press a small cup into the top of the mound to create a crater.

3. Parents can help add baking soda, a few drops of lava-colored food coloring, and vinegar.

4. Step back and watch your eruption! Mount Snow-Vesuvius is ready for action

Frozen Paint Cubes

Frozen paint cubes are a great way to encourage creativity in any season. During winter, bundle up and let your kids create their own frosty masterpieces outdoors!

1. Fill an ice cube tray with different colors of washable paint.

2. Add water to each compartment and gently mix. For variety, you can combine two colors in a single cube.

3. Insert popsicle sticks into the trays and freeze overnight.

4. Once frozen, bring the cubes outside and let your kids paint their favorite winter scenes—a snowy landscape, a snowman, or their favorite outdoor activity.

Call to Action

Happy crafting and happy time outdoors—it’s a win-win! Don’t forget to share your winter creations using #OutGrownWinterFun on social media—we’d love to see what you and your family create!

About OutGrown
OutGrown is a national nonprofit working to ensure that every family, especially those with babies and young children, can experience the benefits of time outside. Since our grassroots beginning in 2013, we have supported more than 300,000 families with the help of thousands of volunteers across the country. We believe nature belongs to all of us from the very beginning. That means creating opportunities, removing barriers, and supporting families in finding their way outdoors, whether that starts with a stroller walk, a community outing, or a quiet moment under the sky. You can learn more and explore our programs at WeAreOutGrown.org.

Editor’s Note
Thank you for reading. At OutGrown, we believe content should offer more than information. It should create a connection, support real-life caregiving, and reflect how families grow together through nature. Everything we share is made with care by our team and volunteer community. If this piece inspired you or helped you feel more confident in your outdoor journey, we invite you to support our work by donating today. Your contributions help us keep resources free and accessible to all families.

Please remember that the experiences and tips shared in this article are for general information only. They are not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or safety advice. Always consult with a qualified provider if you have specific concerns or questions.

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