01/26/2026
Winter storms can make the whole house feel a little unsettled. Add a power outage to that? You've probably got some bored (and nervous) kids. Giving them a simple game or “mission” helps keep them occupied and in high spirits!
Here are some easy, screen-free ideas you can do with things you have on hand:
✈️ Paper plane contest
Grab a few sheets of paper and make your events: distance, accuracy (aim for a pillow), or best stunt landing. Tape a start line on the floor if you’ve got it!
🕯️ Candlelit story time
Safely set up some candles to light the scene and then let the kids pick the theme of your tale. Add funny voices and sound effects to keep them engaged.
🥄 Kitchen percussion jam session
Grab your pots, wooden spoons, and pans for a makeshift drum kit! Compete for the best air drum solo at the end to bring the volume back down.
🎭 Pretend play (library, restaurant, shop)
Set up your props and assign jobs for the kids to take your order, check out your books, or run the store while you pretend to be the customer.
🔦 Flashlight tag or scavenger hunt
Keep it safe: walking feet only, clear the hallway. For a scavenger hunt, call out categories: something soft, something red, something that keeps you warm.
⛺ Indoor camping
No tent? Grab some blankets, sheets, and a couple chairs to drape them over! Added bonus if you do have a tent—it helps keep everyone warm when the power is out.
🔎 Secret agent training
Create a simple obstacle course: crawl under a table, step over a pillow, balance a book. End with a mission like delivering a note to another room without being spotted.
🖖 Shadow puppet show
This one's easy—flashlight against a wall. Hands work great, but toys are also fun. Let everyone take turns directing and acting out their own skits.
One quick safety reminder: go slow with candles, flashlights, space heaters, and generators. And if you’ve got damage, take photos when it’s safe and jot down what happened. The rest can wait.
Stay warm. Stay safe. 💙