Discover classic and creative ways to enjoy winter with your American host family.

Winter is a season filled with endless activities that make for cozy, fun, and memorable days as an au pair, whether you’re adventuring out in the snow or enjoying festive moments from the warmth of home. Below are our top ten ways to capture the joys of wintertime with your host family.

1. Go ice skating

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Ice skating is a classic winter activity in the USA. Many towns have local outdoor rinks or natural frozen ponds. It’s fun for the whole family to skate across the ice, laugh together, and enjoy the fresh winter air — even if you’ve never tried ice skating before! Don’t forget to dress warmly and bring some mittens.

2. Bake cookies

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Warm up the house by baking and decorating cookies together. Host kids love rolling out the dough, using cookie cutters, and adding sprinkles. This cozy day indoors is perfect for making memories. Plus, you get treats you can share with friends as gifts (or just enjoy together)!

3. Watch a movie marathon

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Choose a few classic winter movies, make some popcorn, and snuggle on the couch for a movie marathon. From sweet kids films to classic American favorites, this is a simple and relaxing way to spend quality time together.

4. Visit a winter market

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Many towns and cities have winter markets with crafts, seasonal treats, and festive decorations. Walk around, try some local foods, and shop for handmade items. These markets are often filled with music and lights that make the experience magical for all ages.

5. Go to an American sports game

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Winter is a great time to experience the excitement of American sports. Whether it’s an NBA basketball game, an NHL hockey match, or a college football bowl game, attending a sports event is a fun way to dive into local culture and cheer alongside fans.

6. Make hot cocoa from scratch

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Gather in the kitchen to make homemade hot chocolate. Kids can help stir the milk, add cocoa, and top their mugs with marshmallows or whipped cream. This cozy drink is perfect after a chilly day outdoors, and it’s a fun way to warm up together. Looking for more ideas? Check out the best regional soups for winter in the USA!

7. Make s’mores by the fire

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Winter is the perfect time to gather around a cozy fire and make s’mores. If your host family has an indoor fireplace, you can toast marshmallows right in the home. If not, an outdoor bonfire can be enjoyed anytime of the year! Add the chocolate and graham crackers and enjoy the gooey sweetness.

8. Go shopping 

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Shopping in the USA is an exciting experience, with many different items and styles. You’ll find everything from big malls to local stores. And, winter is the best time to shop, with holiday sales and seasonal items that make it easy and affordable to find clothes, gifts, and souvenirs to take home.

9. Do a puzzle or craft project

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On cold winter days, gather with your host family to enjoy a puzzle or creative project. Working on a puzzle is a relaxing way to spend time with your host kids — everyone can contribute to finding pieces and putting it all together. If puzzles aren’t your thing, try a winter-themed craft.

10. Build a snowman

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Get everyone outside to build a snowman. Bring a scarf, a hat, and a carrot for the nose! Making a snowman together is a fun way to enjoy the snow and a perfect activity for a snowy winter day.

Curious to know more about Ready to start your winter au pair adventure? Apply now.