We asked our families for their favorite activities for preschoolers in winter in the Bay Area, and the responses could not have been more wholesome! Turns out you don’t need to buy expensive tickets to holiday events and attractions. As winter sets in, we are presented with plenty of fun activities right on our doorstep - and there are also lots of play-based learning opportunities too!
Here are some of the non-ticketed activities the Kids Konnect families said they like to do with preschoolers in winter:
“She loves buses so just jump on the bus and ride around town”
It might seem ordinary to us, but for our preschoolers, riding a bus is like stepping into a mini-adventure. So, grab their raincoats, hop on the local bus, and let them explore the world around them from a safe, cozy spot.
They'll be fascinated by the hustle and bustle outside, the colorful cityscape whizzing by, and the different people coming and going. It's a fantastic way to spark their curiosity and kickstart conversations about the world around them. A bus ride is a simple, fun play-based lesson in disguise.
“Going to the snow for sledding!”
Whisking your preschooler off for some sled run building is more than just fun - it's an adventure packed with learning opportunities. The children have to work together and figure out the best shape for the run, maybe even learning a bit about gravity and motion. If you're lucky enough to experience it, building a sled run is a play-based lesson your preschooler won't forget!
"Sing our favorite holiday songs!"
Holiday music is already playing on the radio and it is a beautiful medium to explore different cultures and celebrations with your preschooler throughout the season. You could check out the upcoming free event by the Jewish Folk Chorus of San Francisco titled 'Joyful Voices'. They've been sharing light, hope, and freedom through their music since 1926, and this year they are inviting you to join them in celebrating Hanukkah and sing along! With melodies in Yiddish, English, Ladino, and Russian, it's not just entertainment, but also a cultural journey for your little ones.
Read our blog: The Importance of Sharing Holidays You Don't Celebrate at Preschool
"Go to Storytimes at Redwood City Public Library"
Redwood City Public Library offers regular toddler/preschooler storytimes at its various locations and in the holiday season the stories explore all the different holidays including Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas and more. These free sessions are a lovely way to meet new friends and it's a very easy going activity for the parents!
“Cut your own Christmas Tree as a family”
Heading out as a family to select your Christmas tree is a magical way to kick-start the holiday season! There's something about that fresh pine smell and the shared decision of which tree is 'the one' that really brings a family together. It's not just about getting a tree, it's about creating memories that'll warm your heart every time you glance at the twinkling lights in your living room.
And here's another beautiful part of this tradition - The Guardsmen Christmas Tree Lot in San Francisco. Why do we love it so much? Well, every tree you purchase from The Guardsmen is not just about brightening your home, but also lighting up the lives of Bay Area youth. The proceeds go towards supporting underprivileged children, providing them with opportunities for positive life experiences. So, you're not just bringing home a tree, but also spreading the spirit of giving. It's a wonderful way to teach your kids about the joy of giving back during the holiday season. So let's keep this tradition alive, shall we? Happy tree hunting and happy holidays!
“Driving or walking around to look at holiday lights!”
This is a fun and free activity that's right on your doorstep! Take a stroll or drive around your neighborhood to admire the local holiday lights. Watch your little ones’ eyes light up as they spot twinkling stars, glowing reindeer, and colorful bulbs. And this is a wonderful STEAM learning opportunity. Ask them about the colors they see and shapes they recognize. Can they spot any patterns? How do the lights work? This simple activity is more than festive fun, it's also a great chance to engage their young minds and spark conversations.
“Do living room sleepovers with blanket, mattress on the floor and watch holiday movies like Polar Express”
Looking for a way to entertain your preschooler at home? Consider transforming your living room into a magical sleepover spot! Simply laying out cozy blankets and soft mats or beanbags on the floor can create an inviting, comfy space. Dimming the main lights and letting the gentle glow of Christmas tree or fairy lights take over can turn the ordinary into something truly extraordinary. Turn on a favorite holiday movie, get some tasty snacks, and you’ve got the perfect afternoon in.
“Getting hot chocolate and going to Christmas Tree Lane in Alameda is always a favorite!”
Head out to a local cafe and treat your little one to a hot chocolate. If you’re a family with multiple kids, this is really lovely to do as a one on one activity. Chat to your child about what they’ve learned recently at preschool, who they like playing with, and what they’re excited about for the holiday season.
And Christmas Tree Lane? Instead of Union Square, head to Thompson Avenue in Alameda to experience the magical neighborhood where every house goes all out on their holiday lights! It's truly spectacular. View the Facebook page here.
“Jumping in Puddles”
The moment your little one spots a puddle, their eyes light up! There's something simply irresistible to children about splashing and stomping in those mini lakes that Mother Nature leaves behind. So why not turn a rainy day into an adventure? Dress them up in their waterproof gear and let them loose! Watch as they jump, splash, and giggle with joy. It's not just fun, it's a whole sensory experience for them. Plus, let's be honest, it's pretty hilarious for us adults too!
Book a Tour of Kids Konnect
Kids Konnect is where play meets a STEAM-focused curriculum. Every day is a new adventure, filled with discovery and creativity. Interested in learning more about our play-based curriculum? Book a tour of your nearest Kids Konnect preschool to begin your journey with us.