(BPT) - Winter weather brings with it numerous activities that inspire curiosity in adults and children alike. In fact, many snow day activities can even help with child development. As snowflakes begin to fall in several states across the country, parents can use this time as an opportunity to ignite their child's curious mind and engage their imaginations.
"The winter season is a time when we see children's curiosity soar, especially when snow is involved," said Joy Turner, vice president of education at Kiddie Academy® Educational Child Care. "Snow days are an excellent opportunity for children to engage in play that isn't always available to them. Not only can parents encourage their child to experience and appreciate nature, but they can also take time to teach them about snowflakes, the different seasons, how snow is formed and more."
Kiddie Academy encourages parents to make the most of their child's next snow day. Here are a few activities to consider:
1. Take a nature walk. Observe and discuss the quiet that descends over newly fallen snow, look for animal tracks and try to identify what animal left them, or count the number of icicles hanging from roofs. Let your child's curiosity guide your outdoor exploration.
2. Create winter bird feeders. Cover pinecones in nut or seed butter and roll them in birdseed. String the pinecones on pieces of yarn and then hang them on a tree outside near a window with a good view. Together with your child, watch as birds of many sizes and colors enjoy the treat, taking time to call out observations about each bird that stops by.
3. Make a heartwarming soup. Talk about the origins of the recipe and explain how all the flavors and ingredients mix to create a tasty meal. Let your child ask questions about the cooking process and encourage them to help with tasks like washing veggies, and measuring and combining ingredients.
4. Engage in pretend play. Act out different arctic animals like polar bears, penguins and seals. This is an opportunity to introduce different animals to your child and teach them about various habitats. Wherever this play goes, leave it unstructured and let your child's imagination lead them.
5. Invent a snowflake matching game. Together with your child, clip symmetrical snowflakes out of paper and cut them in half. Explore how every snowflake is different, just like each person. Depending on the age and ability of your child, help them cut shapes out of paper that's been folded into a triangle. When you unfold it, the snowflake will have a unique, symmetrical design. Cut each snowflake in half and then work with your child to match the snowflake pieces.
Snow days are an excellent way to encourage your child's curiosity and make lasting memories. Next time you see snow in the weather forecast, take it as an opportunity to get creative with your little one.
