Snow day magic: Creative crafts and cozy fun for the whole family

When the snow starts falling and school gets canceled, it’s the perfect opportunity to turn your home into a winter wonderland of creativity and connection. Whether you're looking to bundle up and head outside or stay warm indoors, snow days offer endless possibilities for fun. Here are some playful, practical and memory-making ideas to try with your kids. 

Outdoor snow crafts and games 

Snow is nature’s most magical art supply! Here are a few simple, yet delightful, ways to get creative outside: 

• Snow painting: Fill spray bottles with water and food coloring, then let your kids “paint” the snow. 
• Mr. Potato snowman: Use Mr. Potato Head pieces to decorate a mini snowman — silly and adorable! 
• Snowball toss game: Set up waterproof toys or containers and challenge your kids to a snowball toss. 
• Snow puzzles: Hide wooden puzzle pieces or blocks in the snow and have your child find and assemble them. 

Everyday items, extraordinary fun 

You don’t need fancy supplies to make snow day magic. Everyday household items can become the foundation for creative play: 

• DIY winter characters: Use paper plates, cotton balls or paper towel rolls to craft snowmen, reindeer or gingerbread friends. 
• Indoor igloo fort: Build a cozy “igloo” using blankets, pillows and furniture — perfect for reading or snack time. 
• DIY wrapping paper: Using a roll of kraft paper, your children can design their own wrapping paper (and just in time for upcoming holidays!). You can give direction by adding shapes or designs to fill in, or give your children total creative control.  

Snow day safety tips 

Before heading outside, keep these safety tips in mind: 

• Dress in layers to stay warm and dry. 
• Take regular warm-up breaks indoors. 
• Stay hydrated — even in the cold! 
• Don’t forget sunscreen. Snow reflects sunlight, which can still cause sunburn. 

Indoor crafts for cozy days 

When it’s too chilly to venture out, bring the snow day spirit inside with these creative ideas: 

• Paper snowflakes: Cut out snowflakes in different sizes and decorate your windows. 
• Marshmallow igloos: Challenge your kids to build igloos using mini marshmallows and toothpicks. 
• Popsicle stick snowflakes: Paint and glue sticks into snowflake shapes for festive décor. 
• Snowy slime and play-doh structures: Add glitter or jingle bells for extra sensory fun. 
• Tissue paper window murals: Create “stained glass” snowy scenes to brighten up the room. 

Adapting for all ages and abilities 

Every child can enjoy snow day crafts with a few thoughtful adjustments: 

• Use larger, easier-to-handle materials for younger kids. 
• Offer choices in tools and textures to support different sensory needs. 
• Simplify steps or provide visual instructions to help kids follow along. 
• Most importantly, follow your child’s lead — you know them best! 

Make the most of the moment 

Snow days are more than just a break from routine — they’re a chance to slow down, get creative and make lasting memories with your kids. Whether you're crafting with cotton balls or building snow forts in the yard, these moments of connection and imagination are what childhood is all about. So, grab your mittens, your glue sticks or just a cozy blanket, and enjoy the magic of a day made for play.