Although the coldest months of the year seem to present the
earth around us as a barren wasteland, our surroundings truly hold miracles of
nature that may be right in front of our eyes. And even as the snow blankets
the ground, and the temperatures begin to drop, it is still possible to head
outdoors to teach your little one all about the winter wonders that occur every
year. If you are ready for some winter science fun, put on your coat, grab some
mittens, and head outside into the winter wonderland!
Snowflake Under a
Microscope
One of the most miraculous creations that nature has to
offer is the snowflake. These brilliant little gems come in all shapes and
sizes, and no two are ever alike. To make a fun science activity with the snow outside,
find a kids microscope at the store, or even use a pair of binoculars, and have
your child examine a flake beneath the lens. Explain to them the diverse nature
of snowflakes, and how every single one comes in a pattern different than the
rest.
Track the Animals
Although fewer animals are usually out in the winter than in
the warm months of summer, it is easier to spot their pathways and patterns due
to the tracks they leave in the snow beneath their feet. Use this as a chance
to perform a great kids science winter activity with your child, by picking any
pair of animal tracks that you see, and following them to their origin or to
their final destination. You can take note of the way the animal moves, and
speculate on the reason for their latest jaunt in the snow.
Freezing Bubbles
If the temperatures drop rapidly and you find icicles have
formed in the morning when you wake up, you can use this chilly atmosphere as a
chance to do another fun kids science winter activity with a common household
toy. Grab a bottle of regular bubble formula and a wand, bundle up with your
little one, and head out to the backyard. Have your child dip the wand in and
blow a bubble regularly, but make sure they watch the bubble as it passes
through the air. If the weather truly is cold enough, the bubble should begin to
drop as the liquid freezes. Explain to your child that all liquid will freeze
at a certain point, just like the water you can see in ponds, rivers, and even
icicles.
Snow Inside the House
This is an easy kids science winter activity to do when you
are finally ready to warm up after being outside. Have your child pack a
snowball with their gloves and bring it inside the garage. If your garage is
warm enough, then the snow will begin to melt rapidly inside of their hands.
When this occurs, explain to your child that snow and ice are really just made
of very cold water, and that when they are different temperatures they change
from solid, liquid, and even to gas.
Have Kids Science Fun
with Winter Activities
The winter season is a
wonderful time to teach your child all about the science around us. This year, make
sure to bundle up with your little one, and head outdoors to learn all about
the world!