As the weather gets colder, we love finding creative, child-led ways to bring warmth, play, and exploration into our days. Here are a few ideas to try at home!
Pinecone Snowmen
Pinecones are a true winter staple here in Wisconsin, and they make the perfect base for seasonal creativity. Start with a simple nature walk, local parks and trails are great places for children to gather pinecones of all shapes and sizes. Once you’ve collected your favorites, bring them inside and transform them into little pinecone snowmen using materials like googly eyes, pipe cleaners, buttons, glitter, or anything you have on hand. This activity invites imagination, fine-motor work, and lots of cozy winter fun.
Twig Snowflakes
Bundle up for another nature walk, this time on the lookout for a variety of small sticks and twigs. After collecting an assortment, bring them together by gluing the ends or centers to form a star shape. Children can attach smaller twigs to build a more intricate snowflake design or keep it simple and decorate the star as it is. Natural materials offer so many possibilities, and each snowflake will turn out beautifully unique.
Ice Painting
This project requires a little prep, but the results are always worth it. Start by filling an ice tray (or silicone molds, egg cartons, or any container with small wells) with water mixed with food coloring, acrylic paint, or natural dyes like pomegranate juice or turmeric. Insert a popsicle stick into each section and freeze overnight. Once solid, children can use the colorful ice blocks as paint brushes to create swirling, melting winter art while exploring temperature, color mixing, and sensory play.
