Snow days present great opportunities for family fun—and practical life activities for all ages!

The first snow day of the season is an opportunity to let go of the daily routine and allow for fun. Building snow forts and snow people, sledding, drinking hot chocolate, doing puzzles and reading books by the fire are wonderful ways to pass a snowy day. These times away from school, errands, and extracurricular activities can be restorative for you and your child, while also creating opportunities for family bonding.

Beyond traditional snow day fun, there are other ways you can incorporate the Montessori concept of Practical Life work (care of self and the environment) and other valuable learning into days that school is closed due to weather:

• Baking and cooking – Invite your Toddler or Primary aged-child to join you in making cookies or a quick bread. Elementary children and Adolescents can be more involved in planning and preparing a family meal.
• Singing and playing music – Play some tunes and have a snow day dance party!
• Handwork – Practice shoe tying, braiding, zipping, buttoning, spooning beans, pouring liquids, crocheting, knitting and sewing.
• Housework – Dusting, polishing mirrors and windows, cleaning out a drawer or a closet, taking out the trash, doing dishes.
• Shoveling the driveway – Or clearing snow off of the car.
• Science – Research what weather conditions produce ice, sleet, freezing rain and snow; measure the snowfall and discuss how winds and snowdrifts impact accuracy of measurements.
• Feed the birds – Observe what species come to the feeder. How many different kinds of birds come to the feeder? Which ones eat from the feeders, and which eat seed off of the ground? Research which birds prefer various types of food.



When snow days happen, remember that we will be back at school before you know it. Lessons will be waiting when we return, and academic progress will continue. Snow days are rare and precious. Enjoy the gifts that they bring.

We know that for some of you, working from home means you won’t get a break because of the snow. However, we hope that you’ll be able to take some time here and there to join your children in surrendering to the forces of nature, and that these tips will help you keep them engaged during the times you are working!