It’s officially winter! You and your au pair may need to be ready with some fun winter activities for kids. Whether your au pair has just arrived or has been here for months, it’s never a bad idea to recommend some new activities. Some of these activities may also be a great option when it’s too hot outside! Chances are, if your au pair comes from a different climate than they’re living in now, they could benefit from a brand-new idea. Although your au pair may have tons of childcare experience from their country, it’s likely their first time caring for kids in the U.S.
Here are some of our favorite fun ideas for kids in the winter that your au pair can enjoy with your children.
Indoor Winter Activities
Make some crafts!
There’s no better time to enjoy being cozy at home than the winter months. Since the daylight hours are shorter, doing some crafts indoors is a great way to pass the time. If you’re out of ideas of what crafty things to suggest to your au pair, check out Au Pair USA’s winter activities Pinterest board, complete with tons of fun, artistic activities for all ages.
Our personal favorites include:
Play a game!
Sometimes, an old board game that hasn’t been played in a while can spark everyone’s interest. Remind your au pair about games that are available, or suggest creating a new one like this Winter Movement Bingo. It’s easy to gamify almost anything, too. Encourage your au pair to make a game out of the most basic things, like getting dressed or studying math.
Perform a play!
It can be so entertaining for kids to dress up and tap into their imaginations. Your au pair can help your children put together a theatrical performance for you to enjoy after a long day at work. Let your au pair know what’s allowed beforehand so you don’t walk into any unwanted surprises when you attend the play. For example, which clothes can be used for dress up? Is paint allowed to create the scenery? Set some basic rules and then let your au pair and children get ready for their fifteen minutes of fame!
Get outside!
Sure, it might be a bit chilly, but just because it is cold outside, we don’t want you to rule out time spent outdoors.
Whether it’s cold, snowy, rainy, or just a plain old day, getting outside is healthy and fun. Bundle up in the appropriate gear and build a snowman, go sledding, or make painted ice crystals. If it’s raining or wet, you can put on some rain jackets and boots and jump in puddles.
Since your au pair may not be accustomed to cold or different weather, ensure they know some basic safety rules when it comes to heading outdoors in the winter:
- Make sure everyone, including your au pair, is wearing winter gear so they stay warm and safe. This includes waterproof footwear, cozy socks, hats or earmuffs, gloves or mittens, scarves, and coats. Remind them about layering up underneath it all, too!
- Educate your au pair about the warning signs of frostbite or hypothermia. Kids especially can experience frostbite quickly, so be sure your au pair is aware of what to look for.
- Encourage your au pair to play in the backyard or a gated park so they are free from cars, snowplows, or other vehicles.
Just because the winter months are often filled with shorter days and colder weather doesn’t mean your au pair and children can’t have tons of fun. Besides making some suggestions, be sure to ask your au pair and children what types of things they’d like to experience during the winter season too. Their answers may start some new, fun winter traditions in your home!
Ready to welcome your next au pair this winter? Get started for free by applying today.
