Fun (and educational) Snow Day Activities

Between the polar vortex and winter storm currently reeking havoc across the Midwest, families are facing many more snow days than they expected. Movies and board games only get you so far before you and the kids begin pulling your hair out. Try some these instead!

1. Snow Experiments There is lots to be learned about snow. From temperature to climate, take this chance to teach your kids about what temperature things freeze or how quickly depending on the item. Not to mention, there are fun things to make from snow ... like snow cream! Here's a roundup of other experimental ideas!

2. Snow Flake Comparison We all know every snow flake is unique but there's nothing like a snow day to really explore the magic of snowflakes in depth. Take a dark sheet or dark piece of paper outside with a magnifying glass. Have your little one capture snowflakes and compare and contrast their differences. 

3. Snow Library Collect all your winter-themed books and have a frosty read in. Ezra Jack Keats's The Snowy Day. Caralyn Buehner's Snowmen at Night. We all have a few snowy classics on our bookshelves. OR you could switch it and find all your books featuring sunshine and warm sunny days to warm you on on a cold snow day. If you'd like to explore some classics on the screen, this a great roundup of movies and shows available streaming online based on children's classics. 

4. Selective Screen Time Not all screen time is bad! There are a ton of amazing websites that offer learning resources like Khan Academy where your child can learn for free about math, art, computer programming, economics, physics, chemistry, biology, medicine, finance, history, and more! If your child is interested in computer science, Codecademy is a great place for them to start exploring that passion in more detail. 

What are your favorite snow day activities? Any classic wintery books you'd like to share? Leave a comment!