Here for Each Other: Blizzards

Blizzards can be a disruptive change to routine, but they can also be an opportunity to spend quality time with your little ones and create special family memories. Together, explore these interactive parent-child pages for:  

• Child-friendly explanations about what’s happening outside 

• Fun, snowy science activities for the whole family 

• Safety guidance for grown-ups 

Preview the guide below:

Blizzards can be big and disruptive—they may last a long time, make it hard to see outside, and change our usual routines. But a snowy day can also be a special time to create family memories and spend extra time together. This guide offers simple ways to balance fun, safety, and comfort.

Questions and Answers

A blizzard may bring up questions or worries for children. Offering clear and honest answers and information will go a long way in helping children feel safe.

What happened?

There was a blizzard. A blizzard is a big snowstorm with strong wind. It’s very cold outside, and it can be
hard to see.

When can things go back to normal? When will the blizzard be over?

We’re keeping track of the weather updates to see when things can go back to normal. Eventually, the snow will stop, special helpers will clear the roads with snowplows, and we will get to go back to our regular routines.

Why can’t I go to school/daycare?

It isn’t safe to travel outside. Everyone’s plans had to change because of all the snow. Let’s plan our snow
day together!

What will happen to our house?

Houses are built to stay strong against big storms. After a lot of snow, grown-ups shovel snow away from
driveways and walkways, and check that homes are safe. If anything needs fixing, we know how to take care of it.

Will there be another blizzard?

Blizzards don’t happen very often. If another storm is coming, we’ll know ahead of time and get ready
together—just like we did this time!

Tip: Talking together, playing games, sharing hugs, or having some hot cocoa as a special treat can help everyone feel a little better after a big storm!

Snow Science

While blizzards and snow days can cause changes and inconvenience, they can also be amazing opportunities for discovery. Exploring the science of snow can spark children’s curiosity and engage them in learning.

Make it Melt!

Scoop snow into a bowl indoors and observe how long it takes to melt.

Measurements

Use a ruler to measure the snowfall, then measure other things inside to compare them. (“The snow outside is taller than your teddy bear!”) If it’s too cold or unsafe to go outside, you might record the temperature throughout the day.

Snow Viewing Party!

When the world outside looks different, it’s a good opportunity to sit back and observe. Look
out a window together and take turns noticing what you see in the snowscape. Are there footprints
from people walking in the snow? How do the animals outside interact with the snow?

Story of a Snowflake

Snowflakes may seem like magic, but they actually have a special story that’s all about science.
Read this story with children, and follow the snowflake on its journey. You might even make
some of your own with paper (fold and make tiny cuts)!

A snowflake starts high in the sky as a teeny-tiny water droplet
inside a cloud.
When the air gets cold enough, the water droplet freezes
onto a small speck of dust and turns into a snowflake.
Soon the snowflake begins to fall and attract more teeny-tiny
water droplets that give the snowflake “arms” and a size and
shape all its own.
Every snowflake takes its own path through the sky, which
means no two snowflakes look alike.
In a blizzard, there are quadrillions of snowflakes!
Thank you, snowflake, for our beautiful snowy day!

Comfort and Reassurance

Provide Comfort

Remind children that snow is temporary—it will melt and go away. Let them know you’re together and safe. Hold hands, offer hugs, and snuggle often. Cuddle together under a cozy blanket!

Enjoy Special Time Indoors

Blizzards can feel exciting and different! You might try cozy activities like reading, baking, doing puzzles, playing games, or doing arts and crafts together.

Try to Keep One Routine

School and childcare might be closed, and daily routines may change. Even simple routines like bedtime stories or a set snack time can help provide comfort. Let your child know that things will be different for a little while, but you will also have special time together.

Big Feelings

Changes to weather and routine may bring up big feelings for little ones. You can help by giving your child
words to name their emotions and by asking questions that encourage them to open up. A good place to start is by observing children’s behavior (“I notice you are a little quiet today”) or asking children how their body feels (“Where do you feel your worried feeling in your body?”). Let them know that we all have big feelings and that it’s okay to talk about them. Offer other ways to express feelings, like drawing pictures, shaking a glitter jar, or having a dance party.

Care for Yourself

Blizzards can bring stress—you may have to deal with shoveling, managing extra childcare, or being without power. Try to carve out moments to care for yourself too. You might take a deep breath, listen to music you like, or stretch.

Meet the Helpers!

Before, during, or after a blizzard, talk about the people who contribute to getting your community through the storm. Have children color in some Special Snowy Helpers below and discuss their important jobs.

Bundle Up!

Children are often eager to get outside and play in the snow! Make sure they’re bundled up so they can enjoy this special time safely. Color this page together and point out the different winter gear that our Sesame Street friends are wearing in the snow. Even fuzzy monsters and fairies need to stay warm!