My kids were looking forward to snow so much because Christmas was not white and snow didn’t fall as much as they hoped it will. After snow finally fell, they were not satisfied with only playing outside in the snow. They brought it inside! Allow your kids to bring the snow inside this winter and set up this simple painting snow activity to let them have more fun with snow!
When kids brought snow inside we decided to place the bin with snow in a space with ceramic tiles. In our case, we set the space on bathroom floor but you can also use entry or kitchen floor if floors in those spaces are covered with tiles. Or you can place a plastic cover and towel under the bin to prevent from spilling and paint transfer on the floor. Let’s make cleaning after activity easier!
What you need to prepare for snow painting indoors?
We used:
- plastic bin (for snow)
- 6 glasses (for paint)
- 6 paint brushes
- a tray (for glasses with paint)
- tempera paint (dilluted)
We decided on using dilluted tempera paint instead of watercolors although you can use either. Dilluting tempera is a very simple process – firstly, squeeze a bit of tempera paint in each glass and add small amount of water then use paint brush to mix it together. Add more water and mix with paint brush until everything blends.
How to play with snow painting?
As I mentioned before, we set up painting station in our bathroom because there was enough space on the floor and it was covered in ceramic tiles to ease cleaning,
My kids enjoyed changing paint brushes and adding different paints on top of the snow. After some time, they covered most of the surface and noticed how paint’s color fades away and it looks like snow absorbs it. So, they tried painting with same colors over faded colors.
After some time, they also tried painting cracks in the snow. It was a fun activity and kept them entertained for couple hours. Furthermore, we left the bin on bathroom floor until it was completely melted and all colors were mixed together. During that time, they kept painting snow little by little.
Extend the fun with books about snow
Have you ever wondered what happens to a snowflake when it falls to the ground? This beautifully illustrated story offers a perfect introduction to the life cycle of snowflakes. Find the book here: United States | Canada | United Kingdom
Join the woodland animals as they get ready to play snowy games in this peek-through counting book. Little ones will love to watch as the number of snowflakes decreases from 10 to 1 with each turn of the page. Find the book here: United States | Canada | United Kingdom
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
As they paint on snow, kids work on:
- visual sensory system – observing the colors and changes on snow
- science – process of snow melting
- eye & hand coordination
What to try next with your toddler?
You can try setting up a winter themed sensory bin, or an art activity like making a torn paper snowflake. My kids loved making a salty snowman! And, of course, you can always read one of the best winter board books before bedtime!
Leave a Reply