No Hassle Snow Play

I'll admit it, I don't like going outside in the snow.  I do like a good snowstorm, and I'll go outside to shovel our way out or take some pictures of the kids having fun, but I'd much rather enjoy wintry weather from the comfort of my warm living room.  When the kids were toddlers and young preschoolers, I often felt bad that I didn't want to go through the hassle of getting them all bundled up to go out in the freezing cold just so they could play around in a snow pile.  They say that necessity is the mother of invention, well this mother came up with what I think is a rather ingenious way for the kids to enjoy the fun of the snow while I enjoy the warmth of the indoors.

This lazy smart mom's solution for snow play?  Use the bathtub!!!

Simply use a bucket or large bowl to scoop up several piles of snow and dump it in one half of the bathtub.  Lay a folded towel on the other half of the tub for your little one to sit on and let them play with the snow to their heart's content.  They can stay in their regular clothes and even make snowballs to throw at the shower walls.  If they're having fun, go grab a couple more buckets worth of snow.  When they tire of it, just let them get out of the tub and the snow melts right down the drain.  Brilliant, don't you think?

Now, obviously, this solution won't be as appealing for older children (although it's still a great option if they're feeling a little under the weather or it's just too cold & windy for them to be outdoors for long).