Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

It has been snowing a lot here in the past week or so. Actually, it has been snowing so much that today I am writing this post from the warmth of my living room. The snow is piling up too fast and the roads aren't clear at all, so I'm waiting it out. I've already spent one day this week trying to get to work in the snow, which took me an hour and a half! So for now, I'll watch the snow out of my windows, under some blankets, and maybe even with some hot chocolate.

So, with all of this snow, there are definitely some cool and fun ideas to get out there with your family over the holidays and learn while you're enjoying it:

• Find some snowshoes and go for a hike, or even just explore around some open spaces in your own community. Even though it's cold and snowy, there is still a lot going on out there. While out and about, look for signs of animals. Animal tracks are obvious ones. Find out about native species that may live in your area and see if you can identify what animal might have left those tracks, or look them up on the internet if you're not sure.
• While playing out in the snow, whether out on your snowshoe adventure or just out building a snowman, check out the snow crystals. Note the kind of snow it is. Is it a dry fresh powder, or is it wet and good for packing snowballs? Is it really true that no two snowflakes are alike? (Yes, actually. It is true that no two snowflakes are alike. Check it out.)
• If the snow is really deep, dig a snow pit and check out all the different layers that are piling up. Find out what those layers mean: snow and weather conditions, melting/freezing layers, strong and weak layers. If the layers that are present in your snow pit were instead located on a steep slope in the mountains, what would that mean for avalanche conditions?

Winter holds a great opportunity to get outside and learn about the world around us in some fun ways. And with the holidays upon us, it's the perfect time to bundle up and savor the snow.

Photo Credit: Beccah Thomas