If you're a family who lives in the upper half of the US, then winter time probably closes off a lot of your options for outdoor play after school and on weekends.  Winter can feel like a long bout of cabin fever.  Here's a list of actions and activities that can break up the winter doldrums.

-- Start a regular, repeating playdate with a friend, rotating houses.

-- Register for an afterschool class. Gymnastics, swimmng lessons, dance, martial arts.  If your little ones are too cranky after school, then pick a weekend class.

-- Buy some indoor equipment.  Kids need to exercise their gross motor skills everyday, even in winter.  Some examples of gross motor toys include: A lightweight tent, play castle, or tunnel you can set up indoors.  There are also mini-trampolines with a built-in handle for the jumper.  For little tykes, riding toys are a must.  You might also try a yoga video for kids.

-- Get a few small plastic bins and stock them with arts and craft supplies like, pom poms, pipe cleaners, googly eyes, felt that can be cut into shapes and glued on.  Also include some glue sticks, markers, and paper of various shapes and colors.

-- Organize a family weekend trip.  OK, easier said than done, right?  Escaping for a weekend can be a lot of work, but it can also give families a much-needed change of scenery.  Are there relatives or friends you've been meaning to visit?  How about an out-of-town museum you've always wanted to check out?  What about a kids' musical or play?  Perhaps an out-of-out hockey game?

--  Get outside no matter what.  If you are stationed at home for the long haul, take walks, visit neighbors, play in the snow every day you are home with the kids. Getting fresh air in the winter is good for the body and the mind.