Creative Ways to Encourage Kids Who Don’t Love a Winter Walk

Winter walks can be magical—snow-dusted trees, crisp fresh air, and the occasional sighting of winter wildlife. But let’s face it: not all kids share the enthusiasm for bundling up and braving the cold. If your little ones are less than thrilled at the idea of a winter stroll, don’t worry! Here are some creative ways to turn winter walks into adventures they’ll look forward to.

1. Turn It Into a Scavenger Hunt

We love a good challenge, and so will your little ones! A winter-themed scavenger hunt can keep their minds off the cold. Create a list of items to spot, for example:

• - Animal tracks in the snow 
• - Pinecones or icicles 
• - A bird perched on a branch 
• - Something colourful, like a red berry or a scarf someone dropped 

To up the excitement, offer small prizes for completing the list—perhaps a cup of hot chocolate when you get home! 

2. Incorporate Storytelling

Transform your winter walk into a journey through an imaginary world. You might pretend you’re trekking through an enchanted forest, searching for a hidden treasure, or following the path of a snow queen. Let your kids help build the story as you walk, making them active participants in the adventure. 

3. Pack Warm Snacks for the Road

There’s nothing like the promise of a treat to motivate reluctant walkers. Pack a thermos of hot chocolate or warm juice, along with easy-to-carry snacks like cookies, trail mix, or granola bars. Schedule a “snack stop” midway through the walk to keep energy levels up and spirits high. 

4. Focus on Winter Wildlife

Kids are natural explorers, and winter offers unique opportunities for learning about nature. Bring along a pair of binoculars and a small guidebook to identify birds, or teach them how to recognise animal tracks in the snow. Encourage curiosity by asking questions like: “Where do squirrels hide in the winter?” or “What do you think these tracks lead to?” 

5. Make It a Game

Turn the walk into a playful competition. Try games like: 

• - "Who Can Spot the Most Snowflakes?"
• - "Follow the Leader" with silly movements (like hopping, skipping, or twirling). 
• - "Snowball Tossing" in the best case if there’s snow on the ground—set up targets like trees or rocks. 

Adding a playful element makes the walk feel more like a game and less like a chore. 

6. Dress for Comfort and Fun

Nothing spoils a winter walk faster than being too cold. Make sure your kids are bundled up in warm layers from head to toe. Let them pick colourful or fun accessories like a cosy beanie hat, gloves with favourite characters, or wellies that change colour in rain or snow (just like ours!). Our rainwear and colour-changing wellies are also an essential, perfect for making rainy weather fun! Feeling cosy and stylish can make the outdoors much more inviting. 

7. Incorporate Technology

If your child loves technology, use it to enhance the walk. Bring along a camera or smartphone to let them capture the winter scenery. You can even use apps like a star-gazing guide for nighttime walks or a wildlife tracker for daytime adventures. 

8. Make It Short and Sweet

Finally, remember that winter walks don’t have to be long to be enjoyable. Even a quick 15–20 minute stroll can provide fresh air and exercise without overwhelming your little ones. Gradually increase the duration as they get more comfortable and enthusiastic. 

Winter walks can become a cherished family tradition, even if your kids aren’t initially on board. By incorporating games, storytelling, and warm snacks, you can make the experience fun and memorable. And with the right gear to keep them cosy, your little ones might just start looking forward to those snowy adventures! 

Ready to gear up for your next winter walk? Check out our collection of kids’ outdoor wear to keep your little explorers warm, and ready for anything!