by Deborah Shelton

* Winter Beach Party

Bring that fun-in-the-sun feeling into your home with a winter beach bash. Spread beach towels on the living room floor; wear your swimsuit and a pair of flippers (why not?); feast on hot dogs; make castles out of clay and play- dough; and don't forget to take pictures!

* Winter Word Race

Challenge your friends and family to a race of the minds. Set a kitchen timer for one minute. When the time starts, write down as many winter-related words as you can think of. The winner gets a cup of hot cocoa and the chance to choose the next word race topic.

* Balloon Drop

Who doesn't love a good balloon game? Arrange players in a circle and have them number off. The player with the highest number is "It". "It" stands in the center of the circle, and calls out a number while dropping an inflated balloon. The player with that number must catch the balloon before it reaches the floor. If the player catches the balloon, "It" calls another number. But if the balloon touches the floor, then that player is "It" and the game continues.

About the Author

Deborah Shelton is a mother, freelance writer, and author of the brand new book, "The Five Minute Parent: Fun & Fast Activities for You and Your Little Ones." Visit Deborah's website for more family-friendly ideas, and a free email newsletter. Visit FiveMinuteParent.com.