Another snow day! Here in the Northeast we are in the middle of what is being labeled a “snow trilogy” of the “snow apocalypse”. All I know is that the schools, including mine, are WAY over on their snow days–and it’s only the beginning of February!
Also, many of us are beginning to experience cabin fever! Well, when life hands you snow, make snowmen! Here’s some fun ideas for when you get back into your school, or to work on with your own children at home (click here to print out the FREE activity guide):
1. Watch “The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs:
This wordless video has been a staple in my winter language activity arsenal. It’s a classic with my own children, and retains a sentimental value.
There is so much you can do with this movie, depending upon your individual goals.
- Language Goals: create dialog using speech bubbles or have students write a short story based on the movie.
- Social cognition: the movie provides wonderful opportunities to discuss facial expressions, body language, eye gaze direction, intentions and thoughts.
2. Make your own snow globes:
Create a wintery wonderland, complete with sparkly snow. Target following directions and descriptive language skills. You will need:
- Empty jars
- Glitter
- Sticky tape (wide if possible)
- Scissors
- Waterproof glue
Step 1: Print out your snowman and puppy onto thick paper; cut carefully around them (cut around tab at bottom to create stand).
Step 2: If possible, laminate the figures. I kept it simple and used wide tape. Lay out a long strip of tape and place your figure in the middle (you will probably need two pieces for the snowman). Fold the tape over to seal this image, making sure both sides are stuck together well. Cut around your figures, leaving a thin border of tape. Press down hard around the edges. Your figures should now be water resistant!
Step 3: Gather small decorations for your snow globe. This is the time to pick up any leftover Christmas decorations that are still around–garland and tinsel work well.
Step 4: Arrange your figures. Use a glue gun to attach your figures and trinkets to the lid. Be sure to keep within the parameter of the lid–anything too wide and you won’t be able to put the lid back on While the jar is dry, screw the lid on and check if you are happy with the arrangement.
Step 5: Add a generous amount (about 5 tablespoons) of glitter to your empty jar. Fill with water.
Step 6: Turn your lid over and carefully screw it onto the jar.
Step 7: Turn your jar over and give it a shake
Step 8: Add a ribbon, securing at the back with a little glue.
Your snow globe is ready!
