Most parts of the United States are enjoying spring-like weather. It is getting warmer out and bring outdoors is mostly enjoyable. It is spring break for many public schools. But for other parts of the country, Old Man Winter stormed in and left communities buried under many inches of snow, therefore, canceling school and keeping people at home. We explore what there is to do when stuck at home on a snow day.
Sleeping In
There are many health reports stating how important a good night’s sleep is to overall well-being. When it is cold outside and there is no reason to get up early why not stay in bed and sleep in? Pull the covers up to your chin and catch a few more winks. The benefits to getting more sleep are: better moods and mental health, the body gets a chance to catch up with itself, a sharper and more aware mind, and the body generally feels better. So stay in your pajamas all day.
Big, Hot Family Breakfast
The chance to have a big, hot family breakfast together, instead of a quick, grab-n-run breakfast, is one of the benefits of snow days. Everyone can slow down and take their time eating. Conversations can be leisurely and the family has a chance to talk about what to do for the day. There is no rush to get out the door to school or work. Take time to find out what everyone wants to eat and involve everyone in making it. When a family enjoys a hot meal around the table, there is nothing but goodness to gain from it.
Movie Day
There is no better reason to sit in front of the TV and watch movies as long as you want. The choices for finding and renting films are much greater today than they were 20 years ago. Go online and find the best resources and then curl up on the couch with a blanket, hot chocolate, some snacks and get immersed in the movie. Take a break when it’s over and then start all over with a new flick. Pick a genre and stick to it all day choosing movies from the olden days until present day. Each person picks a movie and the family can take a vote on their favorite one.
Play in the Snow
Playing in the snow is a lot of fun when mom and dad join in. Have a snow ball throwing contest with prizes. Build a snow man or snow lady, snow dog, snow cat, snow whatever. Find creative ways to use anything from the outside to make it. Go sled riding. If there is no sled available, use a heavy duty garbage bag, garbage can lid, or heavy piece of cardboard. And it is always fund to have a snow ball fight. Choose sides and let the snowballs fly and land there where they may.
Get Ahead on Homework
This may not sound like a fun idea, but getting ahead on homework has it rewards later. Encourage teens to bring their books into the family or living room and every one can take an hour or two of quiet and study time. If homework includes the internet, why not ask if there is anything anyone else can look up for the teen student? Everyone gets a chance to learn something about the topic and pitch in.
Get Busy in the Kitchen
Kids of any age can help or take over the kitchen. Go through the cabinets and fridge and see what there is to use. Use the imagination to make something with what you find. There are so many delicious things to make from just about anything. Almost anything can be added to pasta to make it more flavorful. The same thing applies to pancake and waffles. Experiment with coffee and try adding some other ingredients into it: peppermint, cinnamon, chocolate chips, ice cream and anything else that might be on hand. What do you like to do when the city or community where you live has a snow day?