01/22/2026
Welcome, MN Winter! 🥶 With anticipated -45 wind chills heading our way, it looks like many of us will be hunkering down inside. And for those of us with kids, that often means getting creative with indoor play!
As an Occupational Therapist and a mom, I know firsthand how important it is to keep little bodies and minds engaged, even when the weather keeps us indoors. And honestly, isn't it kind of fun to have an OT as your mom sometimes? 😉
One of my favorite, parent-friendly ways to get those wiggles out and boost development is with an indoor obstacle course! You don't need fancy equipment – just use what you have around the house: pillows to climb over, blankets to crawl under, chairs to weave through, or even a line of tape on the floor to balance on.
I have so many conversations with parents about the amazing benefits of obstacle courses for kids:
• Gross Motor Skills: They get to practice climbing, crawling, jumping, and balancing, strengthening those big muscles!
• Problem-Solving: Figuring out how to navigate each "obstacle" is a fantastic brain workout.
• Motor Planning: Kids learn to plan their movements in sequence, which is a crucial skill for everyday tasks.
• Sensory Input: They experience different textures, movements, and body positions, helping their brains organize sensory information.
PRO TIP for extra sensory input: Have your child go through the obstacle course barefoot! It’s a simple way to integrate more sensory feedback through their feet and can be really calming and organizing for some kids.
So, embrace the cozy indoor days and set up an adventure for your little one! They'll be having a blast while building essential skills. What are your favorite indoor activities? Share them below!