Since I live in Colorado now and ACTUALLY get to see snow, I thought it would be fun to share the best art and science snow projects my daughter (5) and I have done in so far! We are homeschooling her for a year so she isn’t the oldest in her class when she starts kindergarten, and “science experiments” and art are by far her favorite subjects of the day. While I am tempted to stay indoors and hermit during cold weather, I know snow isn’t just for hot cocoa and building snowmen—it’s the perfect medium for experimenting, painting, and playing. These art and science snow projects will keep your kids engaged, spark their curiosity, and help you make the most of your winter wonderland.
1. Paint the Snow
Grab some liquid watercolors or food coloring mixed with water in spray bottles and transform your yard into a colorful masterpiece. Let your child create patterns, landscapes, or abstract art right on the snow. I find that spray bottles work better than just trying to paint on the snow, but you are welcome to try both of course! Be mindful liquid watercolors can stain, so err on the side of caution here. You can also bring a tub of snow in and paint it as I pictured above.
2. Make Snowballs That Don’t Burn
This snow science experiment even impressed me, being a random thing I saw on Google! Shape a snowball, put it on a cookie sheet or hold it with tongs, and pass a lighter under it. It will resist melting because of the insulating properties of snow and ice (think how igloos work). I would tell you more of the science behind it but I am just an art teacher and I truly don’t know, ha! But I can tell you my 5 year old and I loved it even if we didn’t completely understand how it worked. 🤣
3. Build a Snow Volcano
Who says you can’t have a snow volcano? Shape a volcano out of snow, stick a tall glass through the top, and fill it with baking soda. Add food coloring for a vibrant explosion if you want as well! Then pour vinegar into the baking snow and watch your volcano come to life! The easiest and most fun experiment ever.
4. Sculpt Snow Creations
Go beyond the basic snowman—encourage your kids to make animals, castles, or abstract sculptures. Use molds or cookie cutters for more precise shapes, and add food coloring or those spray bottles with color to make them pop.
5. Discover Snowflake Secrets
Catch snowflakes on a piece of black paper that’s been cooled outside or in the freezer. Use a magnifying glass to admire their intricate patterns and explain how snowflakes are unique. Then try the next art project to make your own snowflakes!
6. Make Coffee Filter Snowflakes
Okay we got seriously hooked on paper snowflakes this winter, and I discovered the BEST HACK for cutting them. There is an entire blog post about these bad boys and how to level them up here.
7. Process Art Watercolor Resist Snowflakes
Again, another full blog post for you here but I love that this combines science and art! The oil pastels will resist the liquid watercolors, and the salt will absorb them! All the possibilities.
What can I do after my art and science snow projects?
Next time it snows, bundle up and turn your yard into an interactive classroom. Whether you’re painting the snow, experimenting with melting techniques, or painting, these projects will create unforgettable winter memories for you and your little ones.
What are your favorite snow day activities? I would love to add to this list! Share your ideas in the comments below and don’t forget to save this for later if it hasn’t snowed yet! If you need more easy projects, check out the blog posts below. Subscribe to my art education email list to receive a free copy of the Ultimate Guide to Age-Appropriate Art Supplies for Kids!
- The Easiest Paper Snowflakes
- DIY Suminagashi Prints
- Magic Watercolor Paintings
- How to talk to your child about their art
- My Walmart Storefront with Art Supplies for every age!
- The easiest way to organize your child’s artwork
