INDOOR FAMILY ACTIVITIES FOR THOSE COLD WINTER DAYS

South African Style

Winter often confines families indoors, but Dibber International Preschools encourages families to view this as an opportunity to bond and learn together. Ursula Assis, Country Director at Dibber International Preschools, emphasises the importance of embracing indoor activities that entertain and enrich. "During the colder months, it's a great idea to engage in activities that keep our spirits high and our family connections strong," says Assis.

Creative Indoor Family Activities for the Winter Season

Assis suggests several indoor activities that are perfect for family bonding during Winter:

• Teaching New Life Skills: This is  an excellent time for children to learn practical skills such as sewing, cooking, or organising. These activities are not just educational; they are opportunities for families to bond over shared tasks and stories.
• In-House Dance Party: To keep energy levels up and beat the Winter blues, Assis recommends turning up the music for a dance party in your living room. This activity is fun for all ages and a wonderful way to stay active.
• Indoor South African Braai: Bring the beloved tradition of a braai indoors. Families can cook traditional dishes on the stovetop or oven, creating a festive and educational culinary experience.
• Indoor Scavenger Hunts: Transform a regular day into an adventure with an indoor scavenger hunt. This activity is fantastic for kids to explore their home environment in a fun and engaging way.
• DIY Craft Projects with a South African Twist: Crafting projects like beaded jewellery or mini Zulu shields occupy hands and open discussions about South African culture and heritage.
• Cooking Traditional South African Dishes Together: Winter is perfect for warming up the kitchen with the aromas of dishes like bobotie or koeksisters, teaching kids about culinary traditions while creating delicious meals.
• Storytelling and Writing: Encouraging children to tell stories or write together fosters creativity and language skills. This time can also be used to share family histories, deepening connections between generations.
• Creating a Family Time Capsule: Capture memories by creating a time capsule with items that signify current family life to be opened in the future.
• Playing Traditional South African Games: Games like Morabaraba or Jukskei teach children about cultural history while providing a fun challenge.
• Exploring South African Music and Dance: Discovering South African music's diverse sounds and movements can be an enlightening and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Embracing the Spirit of Ubuntu Indoors

"The spirit of Ubuntu—' I am because we are'—guides our approach to these activities, reinforcing the interconnectedness and warmth within families and communities,"  concludes Assis.

By incorporating these engaging and educational activities into their routine, families can ensure that the winter season is a time of joy, learning, and togetherness.