Winter Wonderland: Fun and Educational Winter Activities for Elementary Classrooms
As winter blankets our surroundings in a layer of snow and frost, elementary teachers have a wonderful opportunity to infuse their classrooms with the magic of the season. Winter is not just about chilly temperatures; it’s a time for exploration, creativity, and joy. In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of winter activities for elementary classrooms that are not only fun but also educational.
Snowball Review Game
Is there anything more fun than a good old fashioned snowball fight??? Why not bring this winter activity indoors and use it in your classroom as a review game. The setup is simple for this one: just print off practice problems that you want your students to review and hand them out. Each student should have one problem. Divide your class in half and place them facing each other across the room. Have them crinkle their paper up into a snowball. Tell them that they have 1 minute (or whatever time limit you choose) to toss their snowball across the room.
After they toss their snowball they can pick up another snowball that was thrown into their side of the room. When the time is up, everyone has to hold one snowball in their hand and freeze. Students will then solve the problem or answer the question on their snowball in a notebook or separate sheet of paper. Continue to play as many times as you’d like.
Winter STEM Activities
Engage students in hands-on STEM activities related to winter. Challenge them to build a sturdy snowman out of marshmallows and toothpicks or design a snowboarder that can slide down a ramp.These Winter STEM activities are a fun way to get students thinking creatively and working cooperatively. They are great, low-prep activities with only a few materials needed for each experiment. Students will love completing these winter themed challenges! Click the picture below to learn more!
Try out a Free Activity from our Winter STEM Activities Unit by clicking the picture below.
For more STEM ideas, read our blog post here.
Winter Snowflake Treat
We love this simple yet tasty winter treat from For the Love of Food! Your students will enjoy making these marshmallow snowflakes and then eating them when they’re done. All you will need for this treat/craft is: 1 large marshmallow, 5-10 pretzel sticks and 5-10 mini marshmallows for each student. Click on the picture below for more details.
Winter Picture Books
Transform a cozy corner of your classroom into a winter reading nook. Decorate it with snowflakes, blankets, and winter-themed books. Here are some book ideas to get you started:
- “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats: Follow the adventures of Peter as he explores the wonders of a snowy day in this classic picture book. The simple yet evocative illustrations beautifully capture the joy of playing in the snow.
- “Owl Moon” by Jane Yolen: Join a father and his daughter on a magical winter night as they embark on an owl-watching adventure. This poetic and heartwarming tale celebrates the bond between parent and child.
- “The Mitten” by Jan Brett: In this Ukrainian folktale-inspired book, a lost mitten becomes a cozy home for a variety of woodland animals. Jan Brett’s detailed illustrations make this story a visual treat.
- “Snowmen at Night” by Caralyn Buehner: Ever wondered what snowmen do when no one is watching? This imaginative book takes readers on a whimsical journey to discover the nighttime antics of snowmen.
- “Bear Snores On” by Karma Wilson: When a hibernating bear sleeps through a winter party, his woodland friends gather in his cave for a celebration. The rhythmic text and engaging illustrations make this a favorite among young readers.
- “Winter Is Here” by Kevin Henkes: A beautifully illustrated book that explores the wonders of winter, from snowflakes and ice-skating to the cozy warmth of a fireplace. Kevin Henkes captures the essence of the season with simplicity and charm.
- “The Snow Globe Family” by Jane O’Connor: Join the little family living inside a snow globe as they yearn for adventure beyond their wintry home. This heartwarming story encourages children to appreciate the small joys of life.
- “Snowflake Bentley” by Jacqueline Briggs Martin: This picture book tells the true story of Wilson Bentley, a man who dedicated his life to photographing snowflakes. The book beautifully combines science and biography, introducing children to the wonders of snowflakes.
Winter Snowflake Art
Winter can be such a dark and gloomy season; why not brighten up your classroom with these beautiful snowflakes? Your students will love creating their own designs and they’ll brighten up your classroom when you hang them from the ceiling. For step by step directions on how to create these, visit The Printables Fairy blog.
By incorporating these winter activities into your classroom, you not only make learning fun but also instill a sense of wonder and curiosity in your students. Embrace the season, and let the magic of winter inspire both you and your students throughout these chilly months.
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