No Power, No Problem! Fun Games to Keep Kids Entertained During a Winter Storm

When the lights go out and temperatures drop, keeping children entertained can be challenging – especially in temporary housing or places with limited resources. Here's a collection of engaging, no-cost activities that require minimal supplies and help create warmth through movement and togetherness.

Simple Games Using Just Your Body and Voice

Shadow Puppets

• Use hands and a flashlight (or even moonlight through a window) to create animal shapes
• Tell stories through shadows on the wall
• Teaching moment: Learn about light and shadows while having fun

The Whisper Game

• Gather in a close circle for warmth
• Start with a simple phrase and pass it around
• Perfect for all ages and creates lots of giggles

Movement Games to Stay Warm

Indoor Obstacle Course

• Use blankets, pillows, and furniture you already have
• Create challenges like "hop between the pillows" or "crawl under the blanket bridge"
• Helps kids stay warm through movement

Freeze Dance

• No music needed – clap or hum together
• When the sound stops, everyone freezes
• Great for burning energy in small spaces

Brain Games for Light-Free Learning

20 Questions

• Choose common objects or familiar people
• Ask yes/no questions to guess the answer
• Develops critical thinking skills while staying cozy

Word Chain Game

• First person says a word
• Next person must say a word beginning with the last letter of the previous word
• Helps with vocabulary and keeps minds active

Practical Survival Skills as Games

Fort Building

• Use available blankets and furniture
• Create a warm, cozy space together
• Teach basic shelter-building skills while having fun

Flashlight Signal Practice

• If you have working flashlights, practice emergency signals
• Learn simple morse code patterns
• Makes safety education engaging

Safety Tips While Playing

• Keep away from windows during severe weather
• Stay in the warmest room possible
• Use blankets and layers while playing
• Keep emergency supplies within reach

Emotional Support Through Play

Storytelling Circle

• Share family stories or make up new ones
• Everyone adds one part to a continuing story
• Helps process feelings about the situation

Comfort Corner

• Designate a cozy spot for quiet activities
• Practice deep breathing exercises together
• Create a safe space for expressing concerns

Remember, these activities aren't just games – they're opportunities to build resilience, create memories, and stay positive during challenging times. Focus on activities that bring people closer together and generate natural body warmth through gentle movement.

Essential Tips:

• Rotate activities every 15-20 minutes to maintain interest
• Praise participation and effort rather than competition
• Use this time to teach practical survival skills through play
• Keep activities simple and adaptable to any space

During tough times, these simple activities can help maintain a sense of normalcy and create positive experiences, even without electricity or many resources. Stay safe, stay warm, and remember that sometimes the simplest games create the strongest bonds.