Winter Homeschooling: 6 Ways to Beat the Blahs
Winter homeschooling can feel long, especially with restless kids and the slower daily rhythm. But it doesn’t have to be that way! With some creativity, winter can become a season full of engaging and vibrant learning opportunities.
In this post, I’ve gathered some of my favorite winter learning ideas to inspire your homeschool days. These activities will help you embrace the cold and gray while keeping the excitement alive in your home!

1. Winter Nature Study
Fresh air, sunshine, and movement are just as essential in winter as in any other season. Why not bundle up and dive into a winter nature study? You might be surprised by how much there is to observe and explore, even in the colder months!
Free Nature Study Printables for Winter
Click here for a blog post to download three free nature notebooking pages for winter walks.
Winter Homeschooling Nature Study Curriculum
Let me teach winter science for you this season! In the No Sweat Nature Study membership, you can find video classes for 1st-8th graders about all sorts of winter topics. Here are just some of the wintery lessons waiting for you there:
- Polar Bears
- Penguins
- Moose
- Reindeer
- Owls
- Evergreens
- Snowflakes
- The Tundra
- The Winter Night Sky
- Shadows
- The Shortest Day of the Year
If you’d rather teach cold-weather lessons yourself, these science curriculum guides are perfect for the whole family to use together!
2. Winter Literature for the Whole Family
Winter is the perfect time to cozy up with some living books. While you don’t have to stick to winter-themed books, I’ve compiled a list of some of our all-time favorite winter reads. Plus, I’ve included activities to bring each story to life and make your reading time even more memorable!
3. Educational Games for Long Winter Afternoons
Games are fun and a sneaky way to slip in some extra learning! On chilly afternoons, there’s nothing better than gathering around the kitchen table with a warm snack and a favorite game. To make it easy for you, I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of games organized by subject—these are tried-and-true favorites in our home that make learning enjoyable for everyone.
4. Field Trips Can Shake Up Homeschooling
Going stir-crazy staying at home during the winter? Plan some fun field trips to shake things up! Whether visiting a local museum, exploring an indoor nature center, or taking a tour of a nearby factory or historical site, there are plenty of options to keep learning exciting. Even simple outings like visiting the library or an art gallery can add variety to your week. Field trips don’t just break up the monotony—they also create memorable experiences that enrich your homeschooling journey.
5. Service Projects Brighten Long Winter Days
Winter is the perfect time to dive into family service projects. Whether you’re delivering meals to those in need, volunteering at a local shelter, or organizing a donation drive, these activities are an excellent way to get out of the house and connect with your community. Helping others brings warmth and joy to even the coldest, darkest days. It’s a meaningful way to teach children about kindness and gratitude while creating special family memories.
Learning Centers Provide Direction for Independent Learning
Once the schoolbooks are closed for the day, my kids often have plenty of hours left to fill. I like setting up simple learning centers to make the most of this time and encourage productive, independent play. These are easy to create and can include activities like puzzles, building challenges, art supplies, or hands-on science kits. Not only do they keep kids engaged, but they also spark creativity and curiosity, making the extra hours both fun and meaningful.
Bonus Idea: Sick Schooling in the Winter
Unfortunately, winter often brings along a few sick days. When my kids are feeling a bit under the weather but still have the energy for something low-key, I like to have a cozy plan ready. This might include quiet activities like listening to audiobooks, working on simple crafts, or watching educational videos. It’s a gentle way to keep their minds engaged while they rest and recover on the couch.
Would you like even more ideas for winter homeschooling?
If you’re looking for even more inspiration to brighten your winter homeschooling days, my Winter Homeschooling Masterclass is just what you need! This 1.5-hour video training is packed with practical ideas, creative activities, and plenty of encouragement to help you make the most of the season. Whether you’re seeking fresh learning opportunities or ways to break out of the winter rut, this class will equip you with the tools and confidence to keep your homeschool vibrant and joyful all winter long. Don’t let the winter blahs win—grab your spot today!
Feel free to share your tips and tricks for winter learning in the comments!