Kids have so much energy! Little kids are especially energetic. When winter hits and it’s freezing, it can be difficult to let kids burn off energy outside. And when the days get colder, shorter, an darker, we move our play time and exercise inside. 

5 Indoor Play Ideas

Hide and Seek

A good long game of hide and seek is always a fun way to tire my kids out. We also have a mini trampoline that gets extra attention in the winter.

Indoor Bounce House

My favorite tool for indoor exercise is our bounce house. We bought a small bounce house and we keep in the garage for cold days. With one push of a button I have happy kids and a great way to get them to sleep well at night!

Balloons

Most parents know party balloons are also a great instant workout. Blow up a balloon and voila… easy exercise! Kids have to run, jump, and leap just to keep that bouncing balloon in the air. The whole family can get in on this spirited game too.

Indoor Games 

We also like to play a game we call “Hot Lava.” We arrange pillows or couch cushions in a fun pattern on the living room floor. Kids can then hop from one safe pillow to the next, but can’t fall in the “hot lava” on the floor. It’s super fun and even more exciting if you chase them around.

Dance Party 

Finally, don’t forget the simplest solution to burning off energy indoors…dancing! It’s also one of my favorite ways to burn a few calories too! Our playlist includes “The Baby Shark Song” (of course) and “Who Let the Dogs Out.” I dare you to try it! My three-year-old will literally crawl around on all fours barking for the entire length of the song. Now that’s tiring and rewarding. And all the crawling and barking usually results in a good nap later.

So there you have it! Five simple indoor play ideas for those cold Albuquerque days. Have fun!