Books & Crafts: Winter Wonders Edition!

In this winter series, kids ages 5-10 will celebrate the magic of winter through engaging stories, creative crafts, and thoughtful discussions. Each class features a winter-themed book, a hands-on craft project, and a friendly group conversation to inspire kids to reflect on themes of wonder, joy, community, and kindness. By the end of the series, children will have a deeper appreciation for the season and how they can spread warmth and joy during the colder months.

Class Structure
Each 55-minute class follows a structured format to create a balanced and interactive learning experience:

Welcome and Introductions: A warm-up where students share a favorite winter memory or something they love about the season.

Storytime: We read a selected picture book focused on winter themes like wonder, kindness, or adventure.

Discussion: Guided by thought-provoking questions, kids explore the themes of the story and share their own ideas and experiences.

Craft Activity: Kids participate in a hands-on craft that reinforces the lesson’s theme, using easy-to-find materials.

Wrap-Up and Sharing: Kids have the option to show their creations and share something that brought them joy during the class before saying goodbye.

TENTATIVE Weekly Themes and Activities 

Week of December 2: Winter Wonder

Book: The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

Focus: Exploring the joy of snow and the simple wonders of winter.

Discussion Questions:

How does snow make you feel?
What’s your favorite winter activity?
How can we appreciate small moments of wonder like Peter does?

Craft: Snowflake Art

Week of December 9: Cozy Community

Book: Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner

Focus: Discovering how animals and people find warmth and community during the cold months.

Discussion Questions:

How do you stay warm and cozy during winter?
Why is it important to help others feel included and safe?
Can you think of an example of animals helping each other in nature?

Craft: Hibernation Diorama

Week of December 16: Joyful Giving

Book: The Mitten by Jan Brett

Focus: Sharing, kindness, and how generosity can bring people (and animals) together.

Discussion Questions:

Why is it nice to share with others, even when you don’t have a lot?
How does the mitten bring all the animals together?
What’s one small act of kindness you can do this winter?

Craft: Mitten Keepsakes

Week of December 23: Winter Adventures

Book: Brave Irene by William Steig

Focus: Perseverance and facing challenges with bravery during winter.

Discussion Questions:

What challenges did Irene face, and how did she overcome them?
Can you think of a time you had to be brave?
Why is it important to help others, even when it’s hard?

Craft: Winter Adventure Collage

Week of January 6: Frosty Friends

Book: Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner

Focus: Friendship and imagination during the winter season.

Discussion Questions:

What do you think snowmen really do at night?
What makes a good friend?
How can we make winter more fun for others?

Craft: Build-a-Snowman Puppet

What to Expect

Positive Environment: Each class is a welcoming space where kids are encouraged to share, listen, and express themselves. The group setting fosters a supportive community where students can learn from each other and feel comfortable.

Creative Expression: The hands-on crafts are easy and fun, designed to help children remember each lesson in a memorable way. Each project uses materials that are easy to find at home.

This class series offers a unique blend of stories, discussions, and creativity that nurtures emotional growth, self-awareness, and positive social skills.