5 Fun and Inexpensive Snow Day Activities for Kids

Snow days are inevitable, but Mother Nature’s unpredictability can sometimes throw a wrench in your budget if you’re not prepared to entertain your kids at home. To follow up on our 4 money-saving tips for the winter season, here are 5 fun and inexpensive snow day activities for kids. Follow our list of simple ideas for parents looking for quick, wallet-friendly ways to make the most of an unexpected snow day.

Tips for Creating Inexpensive Snow Day Activities for Kids

Sled at a Nearby Park

Your kids will likely be itching to get outside as soon as they find out there’s no school. Head to a neighborhood park or nearby hill with your kids and a few friends for a fun sledding experience. Use trashcan lids from your home to avoid spending money on a sled or toboggan.

Build a Snowman

Building a snowman doesn’t require you to stray too far from your own backyard. Bundle up your kids in their snow gear and gather supplies from around the house to construct the perfect snowman. Grab a carrot from the fridge, buttons from an old sweater and an oversized coat and hat from the closet to decorate your snowman. This fun activity is free of cost.

Host a Playdate

Snow day activities are more fun with friends! Invite a few neighborhood kids to your house to keep your children occupied after they’re done playing outside in the snow. Board games, charades and storytelling time are free activities that can last for hours. Take turns with neighborhood parents to save costs on a babysitter.

Make a Paper Snowman

Crafting is a great way to keep your children busy on a snow day. Pick up a set of paper plates for under $5 the next time you’re at the grocery store to stock up for an unexpected snow day. Using 3 plates for each snowball, have your kids create a paper snowman and decorate it with markers or crayons. If you don’t have any paper plates, cut circles using computer or construction paper to craft a snowman.

Cook Up a Treat

Enlist the help of your children to cook a fun meal or snack. No need to head to the grocery store (especially if road conditions aren’t ideal) – just look for items already in your kitchen to save a few dollars. Use an assortment of cereal to make no-bake cereal bars — all you need is dry cereal and a mixture of butter and sweetener. Your kids can even help prep dinner! Grab pasta and sauce from the cupboard for a quick and easy meal.

Snow days are bound to happen at least once or twice during winter. Having a list of quick and inexpensive activities for kids will help you avoid breaking the bank when you’re notified of a school cancellation.

Erin Ellis
Accredited Financial Counselor ®
Philadelphia Federal Credit Union
eellis@PFCU.COM