Spending time outside has many benefits for Montessori preschool kids. Not only do they get an opportunity to work on their fine motor skills, but outdoor winter activities will give them a headstart on academic subjects as well. And while there is any number of play-based activities available, we picked a few that are especially well-suited for colder weather.
Drawing in Snow
A blanket of fresh snow is the perfect blank slate. Children will enjoy using sticks (or their hands) to make geometric shapes, write the alphabet, or count numbers. This play-based activity provides an excellent learning experience disguised as wholesome outdoor fun.
Winter Nature Walk
A long walk on a cold day is great for discovering the different kinds of plants and animals that may be found in the Winter. Talk about the differences between deciduous trees and evergreens, which animals hibernate, and how different creatures store up food for the hard times of Winter.
Snowmen and Snow Angels
Building a snowperson helps young children develop fine motor control and gives them an invigorating outlet for pent-up energy. With that as a centerpiece, the children can decorate the surrounding area with snow angels made by lying in loose snow and waving their arms up and down.
Experiment With Ice
Water is unique in that it can transform into the 3 major types of matter within a very narrow temperature range, and that makes it a great way for children to learn about the states of matter. From experimenting with freezing, thawing and evaporating water to mixing different household ingredients in the water to find out how it affects the freezing rate, children will have a fun time while soaking up important scientific concepts.
The important thing is to get your Montessori preschool student outside this Winter and provide her with some exciting play-based activities that will stimulate her mind and invigorate her body. Anything from picking up pine cones to examining the patterns of snowflakes makes a great way to spend some time outdoors.