Late winter is when parenting feels the most repetitive: the kids are bored, you’re tired, and “go play” lasts about 90 seconds. This list is for the parent who needs simple, mostly-at-home activities that actually hold a kid’s attention—without a trip to the store or a 47-step Pinterest craft.
Below are five low-prep ideas that work in February (even if there’s no snow outside). Most use basic household supplies, and one includes a quick LEGO bonus challenge for extra buy-in.
From the Editor: This is one of those “save it now, thank yourself later” lists—great for snow days, sick days, weekends, and the long stretch between holidays and spring break.
Last updated: February 2026
1. DIY Snow Globe (The “Wow” Craft That’s Shockingly Easy)
 Getty Images | Canva |
Kids love snow globes. Making their own turns it into a project they’ll actually keep playing with.
What you need
- Clean wide-mouth jar with lid
- Small figurine (water-safe)
- Glitter
- Water
- Strong glue (adult help)
How to do it
- Glue the figurine to the inside of the lid. Let it dry completely.
- Fill the jar with water and sprinkle in glitter.
- Screw the lid on tightly. Flip, shake, and watch the “snow.”
Parent tip: Put the jar on a towel while working—glitter finds a way.
Bookmark this for the next snow day or long weekend—then subscribe so you don’t have to hunt for ideas again.
2. Indoor “Snow” Sensory Bin (No Weather Required)
 Laura Miller | Macaroni KID Appleton-Waupaca-Oshkosh |
This is the quickest way to reset the mood in your house—especially for kids who love sensory play.
What you need
- 2 1/2 cups baking soda
- 1/2 cup white hair conditioner
- Bowl and spoon
How to do it
- Mix baking soda and conditioner until it looks like soft, packable snow.
- Add cups, spoons, or mini figures for scooping and pretend play.
Optional upgrade: Give kids cookie cutters and let them “make snow shapes.”
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3. BONUS LEGO CHALLENGE: The 10-Minute Build Battle
 Photo courtesy of LEGO |
If your kids love LEGO, this is the easiest way to turn “I’m bored” into focused, independent play.
The challenge (pick one)
- Cozy Cabin Challenge: Build a tiny cabin with a bed, table, and “fireplace.”
- Animal Rescue Challenge: Build a rescue scene (snowy or muddy—kid’s choice).
- 30-Brick Speed Build: Grab 30 random bricks and build the best creature or vehicle you can in 5 minutes.
How to run it
- Set a timer for 8–10 minutes.
- Everyone builds.
- Do a quick show-and-tell (30 seconds each).
Note: LEGO is a Macaroni KID partner. We included this because it’s one of the most reliable ways to get kids playing independently, and give you a breather.
4. Grow Crystals (The “Elsa-Style” Science Activity)
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This one feels like magic and sneaks in real science.
What you need
- 6 Tbsp borax powder
- 2 cups water
- Glass jar
- Pipe cleaners
- Clothespin
- Adult help (boiling water)
How to do it
- Boil water.
- Shape pipe cleaners into a snowflake, star, or any design. Leave one end long.
- Pour borax into the jar, then add boiling water and stir to dissolve.
- Lower the pipe-cleaner shape into the jar using the clothespin to suspend it.
- Check progress every few hours. It’s usually done in about 6 hours.
Fun idea: Make a time-lapse video so kids can see the change faster.
5. Fluffy “Snowfall” Slime (Late-Winter Edition)
 Iullia Tarabanova | Canva |
There is, apparently, no season where slime is unwelcome. This version is fluffy and feels wintery without needing winter weather.
What you need
- 1/2 cup white glue
- 3–4 cups unscented shaving cream
- Food coloring (optional)
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1 Tbsp saline contact solution
- Optional add-ins: glitter, beads, confetti
How to do it
- Mix glue and shaving cream in a bowl.
- Add food coloring if desired.
- Stir in baking soda.
- Add contact solution a little at a time until a less-sticky ball forms.
- Mix in add-ins.
Parent note: If slime is not your thing, repeat the LEGO build battle—no shame.
Keep the momentum going
Need more stay-home ideas? Read: 55 Indoor Activities for Bored Kids
Ready to get out of the house?Start with our events calendar
Need a laugh?Clean Jokes for Kids That’ll Make the Whole Family Laugh
Embrace the magic of this winter season with these DIY activities that will bring a touch of wonder to your children's days. From crafting your very own snow globe to growing ice crystals and even indulging in some slimy fun, we've got you covered! Here are five winter-themed crafts kids are sure to warm up to.
