Cold Outside? 10 Baby-Friendly Activities to Get Through Winter With a Baby Under 1

When it’s cold, dark, and everyone’s cabin-fevered, winter with a baby under one can feel long. The good news? There are plenty of low-pressure, baby-friendly activities that help pass the time, stimulate development, and give parents a much-needed change of scenery.

Here are simple, realistic ways to stay active and connected during winter with a baby under 12 months from the experiences of a mom of two.

1. Pay-to-Play: Indoor Play Spaces for Babies

Many indoor play centers offer designated infant or “soft play” areas with padded floors, mirrors, and sensory toys.

Why parents love them:

  • Warm, safe environment
  • Built-in stimulation for babies
  • Easy way to get out of the house

Look for:

  • Baby-only hours
  • Clean, padded zones
  • Quiet or low-sensory times

2. Free Fun: Your Local Library

Libraries are a hidden gem for parents of children of any age.

What to check out:

  • Baby story time
  • Music & movement classes
  • Sensory play sessions

Bonus: Libraries are free, welcoming, and a great place to meet other local parents and learn what’s happening in your community.

3. Baby Swim Classes (Indoor Pools)

Indoor swim programs offer a warm, sensory-rich activity that babies often love.

Why it’s great:

  • Gentle movement
  • Skin-to-skin time
  • Breaks up long winter weeks

Many programs offer short sessions specifically for infants.

4. Babywearing Walks (Yes, Even in Winter)

On milder days, bundle up and head outside.

Tips:

  • Babywearing adds shared warmth
  • Short walks count
  • Fresh air can improve sleep for both baby and parent

Keep expectations low—10 minutes is a win.

5. Music & Movement at Home

When I feel that the mood is down and everyone needs a pick-me-up, music is the answer. And trust me, you don’t need a formal class to get moving.

Ideas:

  • Baby-friendly playlists
  • Singing during diaper changes
  • Gentle bouncing or dancing

Music helps with language exposure and makes winter days feel lighter.

6. Music & Movement with Others

There is nothing like seeing your baby thrive during a live music class. There are so many small businesses that offer regularly scheduled music classes for babies. They are fun, and definitely worth the money when you are otherwise looking for activities to do during the winter. 

7. Parent & Baby Classes

Look for local businesses that offer parent and baby classes. Your local YMCA is always a great place to start!

8. Feeding & Routine-Based Activities

Feeding times are a big part of a baby’s day—and winter is a great time to lean into calm, familiar routines.

Ideas:

  • Quiet feeding spaces
  • Consistent cues (same chair, same routine)
  • Comfort-focused tools that help babies feel secure during transitions

Small consistencies can make days feel smoother when you’re inside more often.

9. Visit Indoor Public Spaces

Think:

  • Botanical gardens
  • Indoor malls to get in some steps
  • Children’s museums with infant zones

These offer stimulation without pressure—and somewhere to walk when the house feels too small.

10. Low-Expectation Playdates

Invite another parent over for coffee and baby tummy time.

Rules:

  • No “hosting”
  • No perfect house
  • Coffee for overtired parents is a must!

Connection still matters, especially in winter.

Winter With a Baby Is About Small Wins

You don’t need a packed calendar to make winter work. One activity a day—or even a few a week—can help time pass more quickly and make the season feel manageable.

At Bottimals™, we believe everyday moments—like feeding, play, and connection—are the foundation of calm parenting. Winter is just another season to meet your baby where they are, one cozy activity at a time.

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