Keeping the kids entertained during a winter caravan trip can be a challenge, especially on those long drives and rainy days. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a list of ripper kid-friendly winter activities to keep the little ones busy and happy for the winter school holidays. Here are some fun, kid-friendly ideas to make your road trip as cruisy as a koala in a gumtree!
Scavenger Hunts
Turn those long drives into an adventure with a classic scavenger hunt. Create a list of things for the kids to spot along the way. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- A kangaroo crossing sign
- A red car
- A kookaburra
- A caravan (extra points for one like yours!)
- An emu
- A rainbow
If you have the time and resources, you could also create a bingo card or print off a checklist. Not only will this keep the kids engaged, but it’ll also give them a chance to appreciate the beautiful Aussie scenery.
DIY Crafts
Pack a craft box with supplies like coloured paper, markers, glue, and scissors. Here are some easy and fun craft ideas:
- Paper Plate Animals: Let the kids create their favourite Aussie animals like koalas and kangaroos using paper plates.
- Nature Collages: Collect leaves, flowers, and small twigs from your stops and let the kids create their own nature collages.
- Sticker Books: Create a custom sticker book for each child. Provide a blank notebook and a variety of stickers, including animals, cars, and Aussie landmarks. Kids can create scenes, tell stories, or simply enjoy the fun of sticking and re-sticking their favourites.
Storytelling
Winter is the perfect time to snuggle up and share some stories. Here are a few ways to make storytelling even more fun:
- Pass-the-Story: Start a story and let each family member add a sentence. See where the story takes you!
- Aussie Legends: Share tales of Australian folklore, like the story of the bunyip or the adventures of the swagman. Don’t know of any? Make your own up, get creative!
- Puppet Shows: Got a younger crowd? Pack some hand puppets or make your own with socks (also a great car activity), and let the kids put on a show.
Games
Keep a stash of games handy for rainy days in the caravan. Here are some favourites:
- Board Games: Classics like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Uno are great for family fun.
- Card Games: Teach the kids some good old-fashioned card games like Go Fish, Crazy Eights, or Snap.
- Trivia: Create a trivia game with questions about Australia or past trips. Make it fun and educational!
Outdoor Fun (When It’s Not Raining)
When the weather clears up, make sure to take advantage of the great outdoors. Here are some ideas:
- Bushwalks: Explore the local trails and see what wildlife you can spot.
- Bike Rides: Bring along bikes for some fun and exercise.
- Campfire Songs and Stories: Nothing beats a good yarn around the campfire (don’t forget the marshmellows).
Educational Activities
Keep the kids’ minds active with some educational activities:
- Nature Journals: Give each child a notebook to draw and write about the things they see.
- Star Gazing: On clear nights, teach the kids about constellations and let them spot the Southern Cross.
- Cooking Lessons: Get the kids involved in making meals. It’s fun and they learn valuable skills.
Audiobooks and Podcasts
Load up your devices with audiobooks and kid-friendly podcasts for the drive. Here are some recommendations:
- Audiobooks: Look for stories by Australian authors or classics like “The Magic Faraway Tree” by Enid Blyton.
- Podcasts: Try “Short & Curly” for ethical dilemmas or “Story Time” for bedtime stories.
Kid-Friendly Winter Activities on the Road
With a bit of planning and creativity, you can turn your winter caravanning trip into a memorable adventure for the whole family. Keep the backseat crowd entertained with these kid-friendly winter activities and enjoy the journey together. And hey, if in the end it all gets too much, just crank up the stereo and let the music drown out the chaos. Happy caravanning!