Winter Activities Sure To Beat Cabin Fever in Birmingham

Here in the DEEP South, super cold winters and frigid temps aren’t the norm, but lately we’ve had our share and after the unexpected snow last week, my kids were over being indoors. But all in all it’s not a problem that has us locked in our house for months on end.

It’s not so bad that it has us waving the white flag and finally giving in to the pressure and pleading to watch 8 straight hours of Yo Gabba Gabba.

Maybe it’s all relative, but it seems that having been born and raised here in this warmer climate, what seems cold to me is laughable to those who are transplants to Birmingham from much colder climates. When it gets into the 40’s here, I’m frigid, miserable and begin the hibernation process. Well, I used to. Having 3 kids means that getting out of this house is a must.

So what is there to do here for Birmingham Moms looking to avoid the frigid weather and wanting to have the kids shake the silly’s out? Here are some ideas for when the playground has become the frozen tundra.

• Check out the indoor play places, like ijump, Pump it Up, and of course the Mcwane Science Center. The Science Center has lots to do year round, for all ages, including the IMAX, and BONUS! They have covered parking.
• Check out First Avenue Rocks for a little rock climbing fun. They even offer an after school program for children ages 8-14.
• Try getting those little tushy’s into a sports or dance class. I know, this may seem like punishment for you but what are your other options for getting them to burn off the excess energy? Check out a swimming class at your local Y, or gym. Tumbling in a gymnastics class will surely wear them out and if all else fails, look for a place with a giant ball pit or padded walls. (let us know if you find one.)
• Try the Riverchase Galleria. They have a carousel, Lego store, and Build a Bear. If you go early enough maybe they can have a little freedom to walk with you rather than riding in the stroller. Hit the food court for lunch and you have the perfect indoor, but out of the house field trip.
• Not in the mood to get out of the house? Bring the outdoors in. Get out the extra sheets, blankets and pillows and make a ginormous fort out of your living room or play room, trust us on this one, make it remotely cool, throw in a flashlight and some good snacks and you might not see the kids until it’s time for dinner.
• Make Bathtime Fun! Add bubbles, ice, cups, bowls anything you don’t normally have time for. Shaving cream with a few drops of food coloring and you have instant bath “paint.” Let them go to town.
• One of our favorite things to do is Dance! Turn up the ipod and let them shake what their Mama’s gave them. Simple, but effective. It will even help you burn a few calories.

Just remember that kids don’t seem to be as bothered by the bitter cold as we are, so if you can get them out for some fresh air for even 10 or 15 minutes (minus tantrum time for coming in too soon) it’s well worth it, and your free time during their nap will thank you.