Mom’s Cheap and Creative Winter Toddler Activity Ideas Go Viral

It’s seemingly the 157th day of January, and if your ideas to keep your toddler busy are dwindling along with your patience, you’re not alone. But before you brave another chilly trip to the playground or shell out for an indoor play place, MomTok has you covered with creative, affordable solutions.

Mom and parent coach Kirah Johnson recently went viral for her clever list of cheap winter outings for toddlers that go beyond libraries and museums. Her top pick? The car wash. Between the lights, suds, and action, it’s an instant hit with kids—and you get a clean car out of it, too. Another car-driven favorite is the car seat switchup. “I would move the car seat in the car and then go get some french fries and admire the view out your new window,” Johnson says.

Escalator adventures also made her list, with suggestions to visit spots like Scheels, Bass Pro Shops, or a mall for a fun, free ride. Next up, she recommends stopping by a pet store or animal shelter for quality time with furry friends or admiring reptiles and fish.

Her last and almost forgotten suggestion—because Mom Brain is real—is planes, trains and automobiles (and tractors). “Is there an airport? Can you watch the planes take off? Is there a rowboat that comes through your town? Is there free city transport and you can take a loop around your city? Is there a tractor supply store and you can go and sit on the lawnmowers?” she explained. There’s plenty of opportunities to get moving in creative ways.

When all else fails, Johnson jokes, “I heard Grandma’s home, and she really wants to see them!”

Parents were quick to thank Johnson for her suggestions and even shared a few ideas of their own. “Giirrllll, you forgot the fan favorite—IKEA!” one parent joked. Another chimed in, “Free crafts at the hardware store on the first Saturday of every month.” A third mom added, “Local thrift store! My toddler picks out two cars to play with while I shop, though he usually has to return them at the end. But he often gets lucky with a super cheap toy, game, or book to bring home!”

Need more inspiration? Check out these 50 fun things to add to your family’s winter bucket list for something everyone will love.