There’s nothing more fun than pairing a good book with winter gross motor activities for kids. Introducing an activity with a book provides such great context, giving kids a sense of purpose behind what they’re doing.
One of my favorite books and winter activities for kids is Snow Dance by Lezlie Evans. I’ve come back to it year after year because of the cute, catchy story and because it provides the perfect opportunity for little ones to create a one-of-a-kind motor activity to go along with it!
What You’ll Need:
The book – Snow Dance by Lezlie Evans
What to Do:
Start by reading the book to your child or group of children. Then, go back through the story and help the kids pick out the action words and demonstrate each one: skipping, twirling, stomping, packing, gliding, etc.
Write down the words and/or draw pictures to represent each one. Tell the kids that it’s their turn to create their own snow dance!
Help each child create their own snow dance by piecing together the movements from the book. Have each child take turns leading the group (or siblings or mom and dad!) in their unique snow dance by performing the actions in the order they have chosen.
If you have pictures of each movement, kids can cut them out and glue them on a piece of paper in the correct sequence for their Snow Dance. Then, they can use the visual prompt to help lead their friends in their dance!
How to Change it Up:
-Be sure to try your snow dance with music – can the kids do their dances fast? In slow motion?
-Is it a snowy day where you are? Dancing is even more fun outside!
Skill Areas Addressed:
Fine motor skills, prewriting skills, coordination, gross motor skills, motor control, cognitive skills
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Oh, this is so much fun! My son is a very active learner, so I know he will really enjoy this! Thanks for sharing at the Winter Books linky from All Things Kids!
Where is the printable?