When the weather is cold and the kids are stuck inside, it can be difficult to find activities to keep your little ones busy. Why not use the dreary days to spend some quality time curled up on the couch with a book or crafting at the kitchen table.
Here are some great winter-themed books with corresponding craft ideas that will help to keep little minds and little hands working all through the winter months.
The Snowman
What says winter more than building a snowman? While going outside and rolling your own frozen friend is great for those who live in colder climates, this is not always an option for those who spend the winter in places where the temperature is more temperate. So, why not pull out your copy of The Snowman by Raymond Briggs and then make some pom pom snowmen from Homemade Gifts Made Easy.
The Snowy Day
If your kids would rather create a more realistic snowman while they’re stuck inside, then create some play snow (like this from Huckleberry Love) with a half a cup of conditioner and three cups of baking soda. Your kids can have fun balling, rolling, molding and dressing their tabletop snow creations without ever having to put on a coat.
And when you’re finished playing in the “snow,” you can sit down together and read The Snow Day by Ezra Jack Keats.
The Mitten
The Mitten, by Jan Brett, is one of the most beloved winter-themed books around. This magical trip into the wintry woods tells the story of a lost mitten and the animals who try to find warmth inside it. Your children will not only love the book, but it will inspire them to want to create their own mittens like these Crayon Resist mittens from Crafty Morning.
Snowy Owls
When the world is covered in white, some animals shed their brown feathers and fur for snow white plumes and coats. This is true for snowy owls who are the subject of Owl Moon by Jane Yolen. As a father and daughter walk through the wintry woods, they hope to find the elusive creature among the snow-covered trees. After finishing this whimsical tale, your children can make their own snowy owls with bubble wrap, feathers, tissue paper, makeup remover pads and glitter, like these from Everyday Smilestones.
So, don’t look at the cold weather as an inconvenience. Look at it as an opportunity to fill your children’s memories with cuddly couch time reading great books and creating crafts.
Jessa is the Editor-in-Chief of Hooray for Family and the mom of three energetic children. She has a BA in Mass Communication/Journalism from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and is a long-time resident of Central Texas. When she isn't writing and editing, she enjoys playing board games with her kids, teaching Sunday school and channeling her creativity into craft projects.
