10 Days of Winter Fun

by Watersheds Canada
Whether you are a seasoned winter explorer or new to Canadian winters, there are lots of fun ways to enjoy this season. All of these activities will help you and your family get outside, help local species, try a new activity, and appreciate nature. Let’s get started!

1. Make Maple Taffy

Maple taffy, or tire d’érable, is a tasty winter treat made from maple syrup on snow! Head outside with our family and enjoy this classic Canadian candy. Tip: Always do a test in the snow before you pour all of your syrup so you can adjust if your syrup becomes too hard or liquidy.

2. Winter Bird Search

Looking to go on your first bird watching adventure? Use our winter birds word search to learn about some winter resident bird species. Then head outside and see how many you can find!

3. Build a Winter Campfire

Campfires are a great way for people of all ages to enjoy the outdoors (instructions here)! Share stories and s’mores, or see how many animals you can make in the shadows using your hands. Be sure to monitor your campfire at all times and go over fire safety.

4. Start a Nature Journal

Spend 5 minutes listening to the sounds of nature to create a peaceful moment in your day. Consider starting a nature journal as a way for you to remember and organize what you see, smell, and hear while outside. You will collect your observations and questions using words, drawings, and data.

5. Match the Tracks

It’s time to become a wildlife detective! Looking for wildlife can be hard work, but a good way to start is to look down for their footprints, or tracks. Winter is the perfect time to look for tracks, especially after a fresh snow.

6. Learn How to Bundle Up

The secret to staying warm and comfortable during cold weather is wearing the right clothing. Find out how layers can help you stay warm this winter with this Bundle Up graphic.

7. Hibernation

Many animals hibernate or enter into a similar state in order to survive cold weather in the winter months! Did you know black bears enter a state called torpor, which is similar to hibernation, but allows them to wake up quickly if they need to? Print our Winter Shelter Activity Sheet to learn more.

8. Do a Bark Rubbing

Discover the shapes and textures found in nature! Head outside this winter and learn more about the trees in your backyard by creating a tree bark rubbing. Check out our worksheet for instructions and share your artwork by emailing info@watersheds.ca

9. Weather Station

Weather observation is a great way to get kids involved in science on a daily basis! Use our printable weather wheel activity to learn about basic weather conditions. For extra fun, make a chart to record the weather each day.

10. Build a Birdfeeder

Pinecone bird feeders provide a nutritious food source for winter birds while helping your whole family get outside and enjoy nature. Which birds do you think will enjoy this tasty treat?

This guest blog post was written by Watersheds Canada, a registered Canadian charity (863555223RR0001) that works with landowners, community and Indigenous groups, students, and organizations to enhance and protect lakes, rivers, and shorelines. Learn more at Watersheds.ca