When I was a student, winter made me jealous of those who went to public school. They had snow days, but my siblings and I did not. If this sounds familiar, read on for three tips to survive snow as a homeschool family.
When I was a student, winter made me jealous of those who went to public school. This was for one reason; They had snow days, but my siblings and I did not. The practicalities of the subject made no difference to me. I didn’t care that instead, we took ‘good weather days,’ or that public school students had snow kits they did at home. This made no difference to my child self. I would still pout and whine.
Does this sound familiar? If so, here are three tips for how to plow through the snowy days as a homeschool family.
Accept Defeat
Since the dawn of time, adults and children alike have been mystified by the frozen water that drifts from the clouds. No matter how hard you try, if it is snowing, you won’t get everything from your normal school day checked off your list. Kiss that hope goodbye. However, there are positive side effects to this.
‘Seasonal Depression’ is a real thing. 38% of Americans report a decline in their mood during winter months, according to an American Psychology Association study performed in 2022. When it’s cold, most people don’t feel like being out. Being inside means a lack of vitamin D, a primary cause of seasonal depression. If snow is what it takes to get your kids outside, encourage it! Snow makes everyone happier. It helps you to slow down and revel in the wonder of nature. So accept defeat in this matter.
Incorporate Learning
What are homeschool parents good at if not including education in everyday life? The cold weather provides unique opportunities in this department.
Science experiments can range from frozen bubbles, shrinking balloons, and a banana hammer, to burning snow. You can have a conversation with students about how snow forms, and make your own! (Two links at the end of this post lead to science experiment articles) As kids shiver in the cold, you can discuss significant historical moments that were made difficult by the snow and frigid weather. George Washington crossing the Delaware River, the sinking of the Titanic, and the Christmas Truce during World War 2 are a few examples. Learn from historical figures by having a research project where students learn how people stayed warm before electric heating.
Compromise
If you don’t make your students do a normal day of lessons, compromise is a must. You can incorporate educational activities into their snow day, as discussed above. Another option is to watch a documentary that night or do lessons over the weekend. Have your students write an essay about what they learned from their snowy science experiments or personal exploration.
Conclusion
When it comes to snowy days, your school won’t look like it usually does. Children very rarely are willing to focus with snow falling out their windows. However, that doesn’t mean learning is a lost cause.
Additional Links
5 Snow Day Activities for Homeschoolers
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