8 Outdoor Activities Perfect For Winter Weekends

If the thought of filling the upcoming January and February weekends with activities for your kids is leading to some early New Year stress, we're here to help. Sure, chilly afternoons lend themselves well (OK, maybe even best) to indoor fun, cabin fever's bound to set in at some point. We're not suggesting that you subject your family to frostbite, but if the chill in the air isn't entirely prohibitive, a bit of fresh air may be just what the doctor ordered. Here, some outdoor adventure inspiration for the stretch of Winter weekends ahead.

Source: Thinkstock

Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland

If your neighborhood is covered in snow, bundle up and explore the area in all of its newfound glory — absolutely magical!

Be a Good Neighbor

Be a Good Neighbor

If your kids are old enough to do so, then bundle up and shovel the walkway and driveway of an elderly neighbor's house after a snowstorm. It's good exercise for you and your kids and an act of kindness that will surely be appreciated.

Write a Winter Bucket List

Write a Winter Bucket List

Teach the kids about setting goals early on with a seasonal bucket list. It doesn't have to be anything too serious — think friendships, new sports and hobbies — but it will be fun to turn to your list for ideas next time you hear a chorus of "Mom, I'm bored . . . "

Photo Safari
Thinkstock | christingasner

Photo Safari

Encourage your little shutterbugs to get snapping by creating a list of seasonal "photo missions," and accompanying them on an outdoor photo safari. Include things you're apt to see around your neighborhood — a red door, a mom with a double stroller, a white dog . . . get creative!

Venture Out For a Hot Cocoa Date

Venture Out For a Hot Cocoa Date

Once you've exhausted the usual suspects (board games, movies, etc.), getting some fresh air is the best way to get through an afternoon slump. If you've got a good spot within walking distance, venture out for a stroll to your favorite coffee shop or diner for a hot cocoa date. If the outing requires a ride in the car, pair it with a bundled-up stroll around town or in a nearby park.

Photo: Nancy Einhart

Special Delivery!

Special Delivery!

For a project that'll take up a good part of the day, and get your crew out and about for a bit, treat your neighbors to a surprise sweet treat. Try baking one of our easy cookie recipes with your kids, then put on everyone's coats and mittens and delight your favorite neighbors with the home-baked goodies.

Puppy Love

Puppy Love

While mom and dad may groan at the thought of it, dogs and kids are both likely to get überexcited at the mere mention of snow. Get everyone the outdoor exercise they need in the dead of Winter by taking your canine and human kids out for a romp together. They'll tire each other out in no time flat!