Winter Fun Activities for Babies and Toddlers

Anne DeSantis shares creative and faith-filled ideas to make winter a season of grace, joy, and precious memories with your little ones.

Wintertime can be both a cozy and challenging season for mothers with little ones. Depending on where you live, cold weather may keep you and your children indoors more often than you’d like. As beautiful as snowflakes and hot cocoa can be, cabin fever is real, especially for toddlers with boundless energy and babies adjusting to routines. That's why it's helpful to plan meaningful, faith-filled activities to make the most of this special season in your family’s life. 

Here are a few wintertime ideas for you and your little ones to enjoy together: 

Visit a Family Member or Close Friend 

As Catholic moms, we know the value of family and community. A day trip to visit a grandparent, godparent, or trusted friend can lift everyone’s spirits and create cherished memories. Bring along some easy snacks or a small meal, and enjoy conversation and playtime in a new environment. It’s also a wonderful opportunity for your children to practice the virtue of kindness by offering a hug, saying “thank you,” or sharing a toy. 

Indoor Shopping Mall with a Food Court 

While not necessarily spiritual in nature, a trip to an indoor mall offers space to stretch your legs and enjoy some people-watching. Walking with a stroller in a climate-controlled setting can be refreshing, and many malls have play areas, mini rides, or seasonal decorations that captivate children’s senses. Pause for a treat, offer a short mealtime prayer at the food court, and simply enjoy the outing as a change of pace. 

Visit a Shrine or Parish Church 

This is a beautiful way to deepen your child’s familiarity with sacred spaces. Whether it's your own parish or a nearby shrine, bundle up the kids and make a pilgrimage — even a short one. Stop in to light a candle, pray before the Blessed Sacrament, or simply rest in the quiet of God’s presence. Many shrines also have gift shops where you can purchase a child-friendly religious item such as a board book, saint doll, or rosary. As Jesus said, “Let the children come to me” (Matthew 19:14). 

Stay Home and Make Crafts 

A simple craft can be both entertaining and meaningful. Consider faith-based projects like making a handprint cross, coloring printable saints, or building a paper nativity. These homemade items can serve as sweet keepsakes or gifts for family members. Add a prayer to your craft time, thanking God for your child, your home, and the blessing of this shared season. 

Embrace the Little Moments 

Even when you don’t venture out, winter offers special opportunities to bond with your child. Snuggle with a book, play music and dance, or say a short morning prayer together. These moments, though simple, are the building blocks of a loving, faith-centered home. 

As Catholic moms, we are called to see Christ in the everyday — especially in the laughter, the messes, and the cuddles. With a little creativity, winter can be a joyful season of connection, grace, and fun for you and your children. 

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Copyright 2026 Anne DeSantis
Images: Canva