As Indiana families brace for the long, post-holiday stretch of snowy and cold days, parents may face the challenge of keeping their children engaged and active indoors—especially those with sensory processing disorders.
Dr. Breanne Hartley, president, chief clinical officer and co-founder of UNIFI Autism Care, offers the following sensory-friendly winter activity ideas to provide fun, stimulation, and comfort for children during this frosty season.
- Arts and Crafts: Inspire creativity by making paper snowflakes, “snow” scenes with cotton balls and glitter, or finger painting with shaving cream. These activities combine tactile and visual stimulation while enhancing fine motor skills.
- Indoor Obstacle Course: Build tunnels, balance beams, and “ice-skating” areas using household items like pillows, blankets, and wax paper. This encourages physical activity and gross motor skill development.
- Storytime Corner: Set up a cozy reading nook with blankets, stuffed animals, and a sensory light projector to mimic snowfall. Choose winter-themed books for calming sensory input.
- Indoor Snowball Fight: Use soft, lightweight balls or balled-up socks for a fun, interactive game that fosters social engagement.
- Sensory Bins: Create a “snowy” sensory experience using white rice, kinetic sand, and winter-themed toys for imaginative play—perfect for tactile exploration without the cold!
These easy-to-implement activities ensure that every child can embrace the magic of winter, no matter the weather or sensory challenges.
