The Mama Mindset: Balanced & Blessed

Snow days can be magical for kids but challenging for parents. When you’re stuck at home with a 4-year-old and a 6-year-old, managing their boundless energy while keeping yourself sane can feel like a juggling act. But these days also present an opportunity to create memories, bond as a family, and embrace the slower pace of winter.

Here’s how you can make the most of a snow day, keep your little ones entertained, and warm everyone up with a comforting winter meal that’s easy to make and kid-approved.

Snow Day Survival Tips for Parents

1. Start the Day with a Routine

Kids thrive on structure, even on snow days. Begin with breakfast together and create a loose plan for the day. Include time for playing outside, indoor activities, and rest. Let your kids help shape the plan—they’ll be more engaged if they feel involved.

2. Get Outside

Bundle up and head out into the snow. Build a snowman, go sledding, or have a family snowball fight. Even 20 minutes outside can burn off some of that pent-up energy and make the rest of the day easier to manage.

3. Indoor Activities

When everyone’s thawed out and back indoors, try activities that encourage creativity:

• Crafting: Make paper snowflakes or build sculptures from modeling clay.

• Baking: Have the kids help decorate cookies or cupcakes.

• Obstacle Courses: Set up a safe and simple obstacle course in the living room using cushions, chairs, and blankets.

4. Quiet Time

Every snow day needs a quiet moment. Snuggle up with books, watch a family movie, or try some puzzles. Even 10 minutes of calm can reset the tone of the day.

Warm Winter Comfort: Chicken and Dumpling Soup

After all the fun, there’s nothing like a hearty, warm meal to bring everyone together. This Chicken and Dumpling Soup is a cozy classic that even picky eaters will enjoy. It’s simple to make and perfect for little helpers who love stirring and mixing.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 8 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)

• 1 cup frozen peas

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1/2 cup milk

Instructions

1. Make the Soup Base:

• Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened (5–7 minutes).

• Stir in garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

• Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to simmer.

2. Add Chicken and Peas:

• Stir in shredded chicken and peas. Simmer gently while you prepare the dumplings.

3. Make the Dumplings:

• In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter and milk, stirring until a soft dough forms.

4. Cook the Dumplings:

• Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering soup. Cover with a lid and cook for 15 minutes. Don’t lift the lid while they cook—this ensures light, fluffy dumplings!

• After 15 minutes, check the dumplings by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean.

5. Season and Serve:

• Add salt and pepper to taste, then ladle soup into bowls. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete winter meal.

Embrace the Snow Day Magic

Snow days might throw your schedule into chaos, but they also create opportunities for cherished family moments. From outdoor adventures to cozy crafting, these days are a reminder to slow down and enjoy simple joys.

And when the day winds down, nothing beats sitting together around the table with a warm bowl of comfort. So, embrace the mess, the laughter, and the memories—you’re creating traditions your kids will remember forever.

What’s your favorite snow day recipe or activity? Share your tips in the comments!