You wake up and look outside to see the snow sparkling in the morning light. You check the school's website and sure enough, it's the day your children have been waiting all winter for. It's a snow day! Now the question is, how on earth will you keep them entertained?
Don't worry we've got you covered! Whether it's a snow day, winter break, or a lazy Saturday afternoon, your kids will LOVE these winter activities. All you need are a few simple ingredients and your warmest snow clothes!
Pinecone Birdfeeder
Creating these beautiful pinecone birdfeeders is sure to keep your kiddos entertained. This craft is great because it is inexpensive and easy to make! I'm not sure what they'll have more fun with, making this craft or watching it in action.
What you'll need:
Directions:
- Find your pinecones first. My kids and I have fun walking around the yard finding pinecones. Depending on where you live you can also buy pinecones from most hobby stores!
- Spoon some peanut butter into a bowl.
- Take your pinecone and roll it in the peanut butter. Make sure it is coated thick and evenly.
- Spread the birdseed out in your second shallow bowl.
- Roll the peanut butter coated pinecone in the birdseed. You may want something to wash your hands with after this step!
- Tie a piece of string around the pinecone and you are ready to throw on the snow gear and go hang your birdfeeder.
Tips:
- Have wet wipes available- peanut butter can get messy!
- Hang your birdfeeder close to a window. This way the kids can sit and watch it while they have a treat and color.
- Have a peanut allergy? No problem- just use vegetable shortening instead!
All-Natural Homemade Hot Chocolate in 4 Easy Steps
After you've got those birdfeeders swaying from a branch on your favorite tree, it's time for a delicious treat! Nothing says snow day better than a warm cup of hot cocoa. My children LOVE this hot chocolate recipe, and I love that it is sweetened with all-natural maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
Know the Nutrition
Pure maple syrup compared to white granulated sugar is relatively unprocessed. White granulated sugar starts as cane or beets, which then undergo a long process to become the tiny white crystals we know and love. Unfortunately, this leaves it susceptible to a variety of different chemicals such as, diatomaceous earth, lime, and phosphoric acid. Maple syrup is a great substitute!
We use almond milk in our hot chocolate because it is dairy-free and high in vitamin D. Having a couple lactose intolerant family members makes this the best alternative for us, but you can use any type of milk. The almond milk does give it a delicious vanilla taste though!