Oh, February. Any lingering excitement from the holidays are gone. The weather is chilly and drippy with limited sun. In my house, the cabin fever is real, for kids and adults alike. We need fresh air. I’m trying not to let the weather keep us indoors. It’s a great excuse, but we’re all happier when we get out of these four walls. Here are some tips to get you into the great outdoors.

Have an objective

Go on a mission. Even if it seems silly or pointless, it could be super important or fun for little kiddos. Bring a bucket to collect things: maybe the bucket will end up full of favorite sticks, or rocks that are round, or things to show Grandpa or Auntie when they come over next.

Prepare to get dirty

If your destination is a car ride away, stock up on extra outfits for each kiddo. Mud, dirt, rain and whatever else is just part of being outside, especially in this moist weather. Bring more than you think you need — better safe than sorry! Don’t forget towels, especially if you’re going to a playground. Some kids don’t mind wet slides or swings, but for others, it can ruin their good time.

Serve up some pie

Mud pie, that is! Old cooking or baking utensils make for great outside toys anytime of year. You can use extra slotted spoons or spatulas that aren’t in your main kitchen rotation anymore, or some from the dollar store or a thrift store. If you have a muddy spot in your yard, take advantage of it! Bonus points if you have a summertime water table that you can bring out and fill with dirt, sticks and rocks. If you’re headed elsewhere, put a bucket full of kitchen utensils in your trunk.

Pretend to be animals

Hop like frogs! Run like deer! Throw your arms out wide and fly like the mama bird you are. Let your inner child shine and make some silly memories with your little ones.

Warm up

Some stovetop cocoa or a trip through a coffee stand (latte for you!) will round out the chilly experience nicely. Cover up with blankets and get cozy with a movie or some books. Hopefully after burning off some cabin fever energy, the mood will be mellow and spirits will be high.

Find all the options for winter Robeez from moccasins to booties, all soft-soled, weatherproof, and toasty warm for growing toes.