Winter Survival Guide: How I’m Staying Sane as a Mom of Three
Winter can feel endless when you’re a parent. Between the cold weather, shorter days, post holiday season, and the constant demand for snacks, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This is my absolute least favorite time of the year and where I notice my mental health struggle a bit, but over the years, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks that help me navigate the season without completely losing my mind. Here’s my winter survival guide—tried and tested in the chaos of my own home.
1. Embrace the Chaos (and Lower Your Expectations)
Winter isn’t the season for perfection. Snow gear will get left in piles, socks will mysteriously disappear (as if they don’t all year round), and screen time might creep up higher than we’d like. I’ve learned to kind of embrace the mess and focus on what matters—keeping my kids warm, fed, and happy.
2. Stock Up on Winter Entertainment
When the temperature drops, we spend a lot more time indoors, so I like to have a stash of boredom busters ready to go. Here are a few of our favorites:
• Board Games: Family classics like Uno and Candy Land are a hit with my 10-year-old and even my 3-year-old (with some help).
• Craft Kits: I buy a few easy, no-mess craft kits for those long afternoons when we all need a creative outlet.
• Indoor Obstacle Courses: Pillows, couch cushions, and a little imagination turn our living room into an adventure zone. The Floor is Lava is a hit in my household.
• Indoor Play Cafe: Sometimes, a change of scenery for you and your kids can really do the trick. We have many indoor play cafe options in the Milwaukee area allowing you to get out of the house and have somewhere fun for your kids to play indoors. Here is a great list of options: https://www.mkewithkids.com/post/indoor-playgrounds-and-play-cafes-around-milwaukee/
And when all else fails, a blanket fort and a good movie can work wonders!
3. Get Outside (Yes, Even When It’s “Safe” Freezing)
It’s tempting to stay indoors all winter, but I’ve found that fresh air works wonders for everyone’s mood—even if it’s just a quick walk around the block or building a snowman in the backyard. Bundle up in layers, and honestly, I try to frame outdoor time as an adventure rather than a chore.
4. Meal Prep Like a Pro
Winter dinners in my house are all about comfort and simplicity. I rely on crockpot recipes, freezer meals, and soups that can simmer on the stove while I handle the chaos. Some go-to meals include:
• Chicken noodle soup (a hit with everyone).
• Chili with all the toppings (great for leftovers!!!).
• Breakfast-for-dinner nights with pancakes and eggs (a personal favorite).
Having a plan keeps me from defaulting to last-minute takeout, though there’s absolutely no shame in pizza nights!
5. Prioritize Self-Care (Even If It’s Tiny)
Taking care of myself in winter feels so much harder, but also more important given I know this is the time of year I struggle most. I’ve learned to find small ways to recharge, like:
• Sipping a cup of coffee before the kids wake up.
• Listening to a podcast during laundry time.
• Stealing a few minutes to plan out the week.
It’s not much, but those little moments remind me that I matter, too.
6. Have a Go-To “Reset” Plan
Some days just go off the rails, and I know it will happen. So when that happens, I’ve got a reset plan:
• Get everyone outside for just 10-15 minutes.
• Make hot cocoa with my oldest and declare it a “snuggle on the couch” day.
• Call my mom and ask her to please come to my house to help (and I am so grateful she ALWAYS comes through, I love you mommy!!)
These simple activities really help us shake off the winter blues and bring us back together.
7. Learn to Lean
Year after year, I’m really trying to learn to embrace what makes winter special. This season is perfect for family traditions like movie nights, baking cookies, or reading together by the fireplace.
As soon as the holiday season is over, I’m immediately counting down the days until spring. Instead of spending all of my winter days wishing for spring, I’m trying to soak in the cozy moments we can only have in winter. After all, I am grateful we have all four seasons here (although sometimes it certainly feels like we get robbed of fall and spring).
Winter may not be my favorite season, but with a little planning and a lot of patience, it’s become a season I can handle—and sometimes even enjoy. What’s your best winter survival tip? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear how your family makes it through!
