Snowy-Day Magic
by Nancy Bradford-Sisson
Wonder, investigation and discovery are words to describe what happens when children grow in their knowledge of the world around them. Below are some fun activities from University of Maine Cooperative Extension that encourage these three traits. These ideas require children to use their senses and help them develop confidence about their world while increasing physical activity at the same time.
Snow Castle: Collect plastic containers of varying shapes and sizes to use as snow molds. To keep snow from sticking to the containers, spray the inside with nonstick cooking spray. Help your child pack snow into the containers, carefully unmold the shapes and arrange them on a snowy surface to create a miniature snow castle.
Winter Treasure Hunt: Design this wintertime adventure while your child is not looking. Make a trail of footprints in the snow leading to a treasure, such as a ready-made snow fort, a favorite snack or an inexpensive treat. Have your child follow your footprints to the treasure. Ask your child if there are any other tracks in the snow. Try to guess what kind of tracks they are.
Boredom Buster – Dance to the Music: In the absence of sunlight fill your home with another sensory pleasure, namely music. Put on some upbeat tunes and play “Do What I Do”. The leader performs a motion and everyone dances around the rug doing it. Switch leaders with every song.
Some helpful resources:
http://www.extension.umaine.edu/MaineFamilyTimes/mftnewsletter5.htm
Maine Family Times, a newsletter from the University of Maine Cooperative Extension for families with children aged five through eighteen. In this issue, learn ways that nature can nurture families.
http://www.extension.org/pages/The_Best_Place_to_Be_--_Getting_Kids_Outdoors
eXtension, an interactive learning environment delivering researched knowledge land-grant university minds across America.
Nancy Bradford-Sisson is an Extension Educator in family and consumer resources with UNH Cooperative Extension in Cheshire County. For more information please visit www.extension.unh.edu.