Snow in the UK isn’t as regular as most kids would like, but we are usually guaranteed a few snow days each year, which are great fun for kids of all ages.
For many children, waking up to find the ground covered in a thick blanket of snow is incredibly exciting. Snow days present a world of opportunities for outdoor play and adventure. Planning ahead can help make the most of these special days. Here are some tips for enjoying a fun-filled snow day with younger children.
Get Layered Up
Being prepared with plenty of warm, waterproof clothing is essential for snow days if you are fostering in Scotland. Little ones lose heat quickly, so ensure they wear plenty of thin layers such as vest tops, long-sleeved tops, and fleeces or jumpers. Waterproof snowsuits or ski suits are ideal for keeping the snow out. Warm hats, gloves and boots are a must. Having spares is handy in case gloves get wet or lost, which will inevitably happen during snowball fights and while making snowmen. Check that everything still fits properly before the first snowfall.
Build a Snowman
A key highlight of any snow day is making a snowman. Give your child a carrot, stones, sticks and any spare clothing to dress the snowman and make him unique. Get creative by adding scarves, hats and decorations. Use matchsticks or small stones for facial features. Make mini snowmen and snow families too! Take photos for memories and post them on the family chat for the grandparents to admire. If you have foster children, they can show off their creations the next time they visit with their birth families (if they have contact).
Go Sledging
Carefully check local sledge-friendly slopes or hills and supervise sledge rides. Wrap young kids in thick layers and give them a gentle push downhill. Ensure sledges have steering mechanisms. Make basic sledges from plastic sheets or use inflatable options. Take a flask of hot chocolate to refuel after working up an appetite sledging.
Make Snow Angels
Simple pleasures like making snow angels bring joy on snow days. Help youngsters make body impressions by lying in fresh snow and waving arms and legs. Use bird seed or food colouring to create patterns and colours in the imprints. Have competitions to judge the best snow angel.
Build Snowmen and Forts
Let the kids’ imaginations run wild building snow creations like igloos, forts and mazes. Supervise lifting and rolling large snowballs. Stack three balls of decreasing size to build a snowman. Gather sticks and rocks to decorate structures. Use food colouring or natural objects like berries to add vibrant details.
Stay Safe and Warm
Schedule regular breaks indoors to warm up with hot drinks and snacks. Keep an eye out for signs of hypothermia or frostbite. Avoid throwing snowballs at faces. Supervise play near roads and slopes. Ensure children wear wellies or snowboots to keep feet dry. Pack a change of dry clothing in case they get wet.
With a little preparation, snow days can be magical for youngsters. Simple activities create lasting memories and build their excitement for the next snowfall. Just remember to capture photos of your snow creations before they melt away!