When the forecast calls for rain, sleet, snow or frigid sub-zero temps like we’ve experienced this month in Minnesota, don’t let old man winter keep you inside. Try something new with your kids that you’ll never forget. Like ice fishing!

That’s exactly what Meg Bertas, mom of 3-year-old Julian and 5-year-old Sylvie, decided to do a couple of weeks ago. Lured by a “Winter Kite Festival” on a frozen metro lake, they went out in the single-digit temps to be part of the scene.

And what a winter wonderland it was! Pint-sized anglers tried their luck ice fishing for perch through a foot of ice drilled out for them by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in the 20-foot-deep waters, scores of others flew spectacular, colorful kites into the sunny skies, while toddlers, who were bundled up from head to toe, grinned from ear to ear on their sleds as their parents pulled them across the bumpy snow.

Whether you’re in the snowy north or fairer temps in the South, cure the winter blahs by trying something new with your kids. Top off the outing with a simple meal when you get home, and if there is still energy to spare, play a card game or board game by the fireplace.

Here are some ideas:

•Getting out the door doesn’t have to take a lot of planning. It can be as easy as walking to the neighborhood bakery, visiting the library and checking out a week’s supply of reading, or meeting another family for a favorite activity.

•For something novel, blow bubbles in the freezing air. Watch them bounce and sparkle. Take a night walk with flashlights or cross-country ski with older kids under a full moon for a wild adventure.

•Teach your child something that you enjoyed doing as kid, and rediscover that joy when you are together.