winter science experiments grade 1

20 Must-Try Winter Science Experiments for Kids

It’s almost WINTER! Dropping temperatures, holidays, and changes in the weather mean there are lots of opportunities to explore some new and exciting science experiments. If you are a regular here, you know just how much  we love science . For us, winter is an awesome time to do some of the  science experiments for kids  we have been putting on our to do list all year. If you are looking for  inexpensive, easy projects  that are great for winter, you have come to the right place!

Nothing says winter more than cold and icy experiments. I am in love with this collection of science experiments and can’t wait to share them with you! I think you are going to love them, share them and pin them so you don’t lose them. I know I did!

Okay, let’s get started.

Winter Science Experiments that Explain the Why Behind the Dinners

Winter if full of holiday parties, dinners and guests. Why not take that excitement and meal prep as a time to dig into a little science? I love these dinner science experiments that are perfect for any age child.

Making Butter | Mama Smiles Blog  The Science Behind the Cranberries | Stir the Wonder The Biology Of Bread | Left Brain Craft Brain

Winter Science Experiments That Teach Freezing and Changes in States of Matter

Since the beginning of the week, my boys have been noticing and observing the forming icicles out the window each morning. There is something so incredibly magical and fascinating with the changing of matter into a solid form (like ice) for children. These science experiments are the perfect way to observe and even create ice for young children to explore.

Make Ice Grow | Teach Preschool Snow Storm in a Jar | Growing a Jeweled Rose Frozen Bubbles | Housing a Forest Snow and Water Experiments | Inspiration Laboratories

 Winter Science Experiments That Teach Melting and Change Over Time

If you are going to grow ice, freeze bubbles, and experiment with snow… you might as well melt it too! Learning about change over time can be fun and easy with these simple yet stunning winter science experiments with ice.

Lego Ice Excavations | Lemon Lime Adventures Icy Hands Melting Experiment | Happy Hooligans Simple Ice Melt | Inner Child Fun Beautiful Melting Ice Science with Watercolors | Artful Parent

You might also like these awesome  winter science activities for preschoolers … Ice Stacking STEM Challenge for Preschoolers .

Winter Science Experiments that Explore Chemistry

These science experiments have to be my favorites! I absolutely love the crystal formations and watching the reaction of two items in the other experiments. I can’t wait to try some of these with the boys.

Snow Volcano | Science Sparks Hot Chocolate Science | Fantastic Fun and Learning Christmas Tree Crystals | We Made That Candy Cane Experiment | Confidence Meets Parenting Crystal Suncatcher Science | Babble Dabble Do Dancing Candy Canes | Inspiration Laboratories

Winter Science Experiments that Explore Natural and Life Science

Pines, Spruce, and evergreens are a sign of the season. What better way to dig into science than to head outside and find nature to explore. I love the simplicity behind these experiments and the scientific principles behind the explorations.

Pinecone Science | Lemon Lime Adventures Christmas Tree Explorations | Inspiration Laboratories Blubber Experiment | Frugal Fun 4 Boys Evergreen Science | Lemon Lime Adventures

More Winter Ideas for Fun and Learning

More science experiments for kids, are you ready for more science fun, time for saturday science blog hop, visit these great bloggers for more fun saturday science experiments too.

Popsicle Stick Catapults STEM Activity from Little Bins For Little Hands

Why Does Salt Melt Ice? from The Science Kiddo

Leaf Number Hunt & Match from Stir the Wonder

Looking for more Winter Science Experiments and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) projects for inspiration?

Check out my new book STEAM Kids Christmas and get a FREE STEAM Kids Coloring book  if you buy during launch week!

Get more information on STEAM Kids Christmas by clicking here . Or go order your copy now! eBook PDF or Paperback  

You can also get a bundle with our best selling STEAM Kids book, STEAM Christmas and STEAM Kids Coloring book for one low price: Click here to get your bundle today !

Not quite ready to jump in, don’t worry… you can hop over and grab a FREE Preview which includes 2 sample activities, 6 sample challenge cards, and the table of contents of the book! 

Don’t Forget to Check Out The Other Must Try Science Experiments

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28 thoughts on “20 Must-Try Winter Science Experiments for Kids”

Great round-up of experiments! I can’t wait to try the candy cane one in December!

Thank you so much. We have actually already done some peppermint experimenting. We just couldn’t wait!

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Thanks for featuring our snow volcano 🙂

Of course! It is awesome!

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43 Easy Winter STEM Activities

How do animals stay warm in the winter? What happens when snow melts? What is frost and how is it made? These are just a few of the questions I have been asked when teaching young children when the winter season starts. This collection of winter STEM activities are a great way to teach, and show children the answers to their questions as they explore the world around them.

If you have never done a STEM activity before, STEM activities involve learning focused on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. The more of these subject areas combined together into an activity the better.

The benefits of STEM activities and STEM challenges for kids are endless. I have watched children develop critical skills such as, problem solving, understanding how things work, teamwork and resilience through STEM activities.

STEM activities often use simple, every day materials and often don’t require much prep work. They are ideal for classroom learning, or they can easily be done at home.

The collection of Winter STEM Activities below include a variety of learning activities, all with a winter theme. I hope that you find some ideas to bring to your children, or students, as you look through the collection of activities, beginning with science.

Science Winter STEM Activities

Creating a love for science and experiments is a great way to get children to look closely at the world around them. Encourage children to ask questions and use their hands to explore. These winter STEM activities are sure to engage children and offer valuable learning opportunities.

Melting Snowman Science Experiment

Children are naturally drawn to snow in the winter. Have children create their own miniature snowman to use for a science experiment guaranteed to cause some excitement in the classroom or home. Click here for full activity.

Candy Cane STEM Activity

If you find you have candy canes around your house during the winter season, this science experiment is a great way to use them up. All you need is water and candy canes to do this exciting experiment. For the full activity, click here.

Animals in Winter Scavenger Hunt + Printable

Learn about what different animals do in winter with a scavenger hunt. Children will enjoy being outside as they search for different animals to find what they each do during winter. A FREE printable is also available. To view the full activity, click here.

Frozen STEM Activity + Free Worksheet

Let kids feel like real scientists with this frozen STEM activity. Use a variety of items that you have around the house or classroom and create a frozen treasure that children can use a variety of tools and materials to explore and experiment with. A free printable is available for the activity as well. For the full activity, click here.

Animal Adaptation Science Experiment

How does a polar bear stay warm? I get asked this a lot when teaching young children. This hands-on experiment allows children to explore their curiosity about animals in winter. Click for full STEM activity.

Frost Experiment

Whether you live in a location where winters are mild, or if it is much too cold to play outside, you can still have all the fun of playing in the frost and snow in your own kitchen when you do this frost experiment. Click for full activity.

Magic Snow Winter STEM Activity

Playing in the snow is always a good time. But if you can’t get the real thing or just don’t want to deal with the cold and wet, this simple two-ingredient “magic” snow is the perfect kids activity to keep children busy for an afternoon. Click here for full experiment and activity.

Flying Reindeer STEM Challenge

Want to see a reindeer fly this winter? You can make it happen with this fun winter STEAM activity! Click here for full activity.

Grow Your Own Snowflake Winter STEM Activities

Growing Crystals from Borax is a really fun activity to try at home. Here we show you how to grow crystal stars to hang on your Christmas Tree. Click here for full activity.

Melting Snowmen Experiment

Enjoy a cup of coco while doing this adorable science experiment. How fast will each snowman melt? Which will melt first? Does the temperature of the coco make a difference? Have fun testing your hypothesis with these winter STEM activities. Click here for full activity.

How Penguins Stay Dry

We throw on a jacket when the weather gets cold to stay dry and warm, but what do other animals do, like penguins? Show children with this hands-on experiment that allows them to see with their own eyes. Click here for full activity.

Simple Snow and Ice Science

This is a simple idea for a science experiment, which is perfect for experiments at home or in the classroom. Plus, there is a lot of learning that happens. Click here for full activity.

Salt and Ice

Sometimes salt is used on ice to help make it less slippery, but why? This experiment shows, and explains why for curious children. Click here for full activity.

Frozen Bubbles Winter STEM Activities

How beautiful is this frozen bubble? Creating a perfect frozen bubble, is easier than you may think. This is a great experiment for home or the classroom. Click for full activity.

Artificial Snow

If you don’t live in a place with actual snow, or you simply don’t want the cold or the melting mess, there are lots of ways to make fake snow for children to play with. The blue snow looks like lots of fun! Click here for full activity.

Ice Fishing Winter STEM Activity

Can you pick up an ice cube without touching it? This science experiment involves a bit of play and lots of learning. Click here for full activity.

Winter Magic Milk Experiment

Add a fun twist to the always popular magic milk experiment. Make it festive with this Winter Magic Milk experiment. Click here for full activity.

Frost in a Jar

There is a lot of science in this one experiment. Use materials that you already have at home to create some frost in a jar. Click for full activity description.

Oil and Ice Experiment

If you have experimented with oil and water before, you’ll want to try this twist on the experiment. Children will learn about density, color mixing, states of matter and more. Click for full activity.

Ice Tower Winter STEM activity

I’ve always wanted to try this with my kids! Experiments like this are almost magical and create a love and curiosity for science. Click for full activity.

Ice Crystals Science Experiment

There are a lot of big science ideas in this science experiment, and for little learners it gives them a hands-on way to see how ice crystals form and the science behind it. Click here for full activity.

Burning Ice STEM Activity

For older children, with an adult, you can test out if you can burn ice. This is a great experiment for inquiry investigations for older learners. Click here for full activity.

Snow Storm in a Jar

Learn about chemical reactions with this Snow Storm in a Jar. Kids will love creating their own jar and watching it as the reaction occurs. Click here for full activity description.

Glowing Ice Cubes

I don’t know any kids who wouldn’t love playing with these! A simple experiment that shows children how one simple ingredient can change regular ice cubes into glowing ice cubes. Click for full description .

Crystal Snowflakes Winter STEM Activities

There are lots of different ways to create crystal snowflakes. This STEM activity takes these experiments one step further by testing the different ways to create crystal snowflakes and comparing the results. Click for full activity.

Salt + Paper Snowflakes

Add a bit of art to your science class with these salt and paper snowflakes. Children will learn some science as they create beautiful crystal snowflakes for winter. Click here for full activity.

Snowstorm in a Jar

This experiment is beautiful to watch. Children will love doing this hands-on experiment and learning about the chemical reaction that occurs. Even adults will love watching the “snowstorm” that is created. Click here for full activity.

Snowflake Art + Science

Some of the best winter STEM activities involve several different learning experiences. This Crystal Snowflake activity allows children to be creative as they also learn what happens to a salt + water solution when it dries. Even the crystals that form are great to observe carefully. Click for full activity description.

Appearing Snowflakes

There is science in everything! Learn the science behind this art project. Click for full activity.

Hot Chocolate Surprise

Hot chocolate and winter go hand in hand. Have some fun with a cup of coco with this exploding experiment that kids are sure to love. Click here for full activity.

Ice Cube Snowman

Teach about melting ice with this simple experiment that kids will love to watch. Pair this experiment with a classic winter book. Click here for full experiment.

Exploring Magnets + Art

Give children a chance to be creative as they make a skating scene. Add a science lesson to their learning with magnets attached to each skater. Children can learn about magnets and a little bit about how they work with this hands-on art and science project. Click here for full activity.

Optical Illusion Craft + STEM Learning

There is more to this beautiful craft than meets the eye. Children learn about optical illusions with this DIY thaumatrope. Click for instructions.

Engineering Winter STEM Activities

Get kids to create with their hands, with these building challenges – all with a winter theme.

Polar Bear Home STEM Challenge

Grab some marshmallows and toothpicks for this STEM activity. Challenge children to create a home for a polar bear using a few simple materials. You will be amazed by what they can come up with. For full activity click here.

Build a Snowman STEM Challenge

Use a few, creative, materials to challenge children to create a snowman. Using apples and oranges adds to the challenge and the learning, as they roll and the snowman falls. Click for full activity.

Tallest Snowman Winter STEM Activity

How tall can you make your snowman? Challenge children of all ages to create the tallest snowman using a few simple materials. Add to the challenge by requiring the snowman to stand! Click here for full activity.

Building with Snowballs

Learn about balance, shapes and problem solving with this building challenge. Use styrofoam balls, or snowballs, for this STEM building challenge. Click for full activity.

Snowman Popper STEM Challenge

My kids would quickly turn this craft into a STEM challenge. Create this adorable pom pom popper and kids can challenge each other to pop the pom pom the furthest. Children can alter their design as they play to get the furthest distance. Click here for full activity.

Winter STEM Activities – Printable Cards

Looking for some quick and easy winter STEM activities? These free activity cards are perfect to print and have on hand in the classroom or home. Click here to read more.

M ath Winter STEM Activities

Math is often an easy skill to work into your winter STEM activities and can be added very naturally by measuring creations or working with numbers.

Roll and Build a Snowman Math Activity + Printable

Make math fun with this hands-on math activity. Children create their own snowman as they roll the dice. A FREE printable is also available for the activity. Click here for full activity description and worksheet.

Holiday Themed Math Worksheets

Keep the learning happening during the holidays with these FREE Christmas Math Worksheets and games. All worksheets are designed with early learners in mind! Click for more information.

Melting Snowman in a Jar Winter STEM Activity

Add some math to the melting snowman in a jar experiment. Children learn about the changes in the states of matter from snow to water and the volume each takes up. Click here for full activity.

Build a Symmetrical Snowflake

This hands-on math lesson involves creating beautiful, symmetrical snowflakes. Printable worksheet available. Click for full activity description.

FREE Resource Library

Many of the activities included in this collection of Winter STEM Activities can be downloaded from Hands-On Teaching Ideas. If you would like to access all of my free, printable resources, subscribe today and get instant access.

Download a Free STEAM Choice Board today!

When you subscribe you will receive an email with a link to the Free Resource Library. The library is filled with lots of printable learning resources. You can download any files that interest you! Click to subscribe.

More Hands-On Teaching Ideas

Winter is a great time to get a collection of themed resources and activities for kids. Below is a collection of my most popular, and favorite winter activities for kids. From a surprise snowman literacy activity and outdoor education activities to winter crafts and more STEM activities for kids.

If you are looking for more activities to try with children with the winter theme, check out my shop filled with printables for all subjects and themes. Below are my printable Winter activities and escape rooms!

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Snow Storm in a Jar

When the weather is too cold to make it outside for play, enjoy simple winter science inside! Set up an invitation to make a winter snow storm in a jar experiment . Kids will love creating their own snowstorms with common household supplies, as they enjoy simple winter science experiments . Find everything you need below to get started!

SNOW STORM IN A JAR EXPERIMENT!

WINTER SCIENCE

The best part of this winter science experiment is that you don’t need any actual snow to enjoy it! That means everyone can try it, whether its cold outside or not.

You may have already tried something similar if you have ever tried our homemade lava lamp experiment !

We have extra freezing cold temperatures here right now as does much of the country. You don’t have to be stuck on screens if you are stuck inside, make your very own snow storm in a jar instead.

This is a classic science experiment with a seasonal twist and one extra special ingredient you will find listed below. Easy science experiments are our favorite, whether you love making slime or exploring cool chemical reactions, we have it all!

SNOW STORM IN A JAR

Let’s get started with making your very own winter snow storm in a jar! You have a choice when it comes to the oil you use in this activity. Here are your options.

Cooking oil is cheap and most likely you have a ton of it on hand. If not I recommend picking some up,  see our homemade science kit . However, as you can see, cooking oil does have a yellow hue to it. Baby oil is much more expensive, but it’s clear.

Then pick a vase or jar big enough to hold several cups of liquid. If you don’t have one big enough, you can cut the supplies used in half or to whatever proportion you need.

Click below for your FREE printable Winter Theme Projects !

YOU WILL NEED:

• Oil (vegetable oil or baby oil)
• White (or light blue) Washable School Paint (and/or food coloring)
• Alka Seltzer Tablets
• Cup, Jar, or Bottle

Want to make snow in a different way? Check out our easy fake snow recipe .

HOW TO MAKE A SNOW STORM IN A JAR

STEP 1: Add 1 cup of water to the vase or large jar.

STEP 2: Mix in 1 tsp of paint (acrylic glitter paint works well too). Add food coloring if desired.

STEP 3: Then pour oil in almost to the top of the container.

STEP 4: Break the Alka seltzer tablet into pieces and drop one at a time into the oil. You may want to add additional pieces for a blizzard!

Observe the reaction that takes place.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND SNOW STORM IN A JAR

Is this what happens in a snow storm? No. you are not actually recreating a snow storm or blizzard. But a simple chemical reaction can give the look of a snow storm for a fun winter theme science experiment.

There is also some interesting science behind this snow in a jar. Explore liquid density and chemical reactions all in one easy to set up science activity in a jar! Read on to find out more.

There are a couple of fun science concepts going on here if you look closely! The first thing to point out or ask your kids about is the density of the liquids being used.

Density refers to the compactness of stuff in space or the amount of material that is in a set size. Denser materials of the same size are heavier because there is more material in the same size space.

Is water lighter or heavier than oil? Make sure to notice that the oil sits on top of the water. What happens to the paint? Liquid density is fun to explore with kids.

Our density rainbow experiment is another fun science experiment to explore the density of liquids.

I am pretty sure everyone observed the chemical reaction that happened when the tablet was dropped into the cup. This reaction is what creates the awesome snow storm effect.

The alka seltzer tablet contains an acid and  a base that when mixed with the water, creates the bubbles. The bubbles are a result of the carbon dioxide gas that is released during the chemical reaction.

To make the snow effect, the bubbles pick up the white paint and carry it to the surface. Once the bubbles reach the surface they pop and the paint/water mixture drops back down!

Check out more fizzing science experiments here .

MORE FUN WINTER SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS

• Frost on a Can
• Make A Snowball Launcher
• How Do Polar Bears Stay Warm?
• How To Make A Thermometer
• Snow Cream Recipe

CREATE A WINTER SNOW STORM IN A JAR

Click on the image below or on the link for more fun winter experiments for kids.

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The Best Winter Science Experiments

January 2, 2024 By Emma Vanstone Leave a Comment

Winter is a great time of year to try some science at home . Ice and snow-themed experiments don’t require special materials, look great, and if you can do them outside, are almost mess free!

I’ve pulled together a collection of what we think are the best winter science experiments for kids, including a free checklist you can download at the bottom of the post.

My FREE winter science eBook is a great place to start with easy-to-follow instructions for five winter science investigations .

The Best Winter Science Experiments for Kids

Snow volcano.

First up is a snow volcano . These are super easy to make. Gather snow around a bottle and add water, food colouring, dish soap ( washing up liquid ) and baking soda. Try making different colours of lava using food colouring and experiment to find the best fizzy recipe!

Ice and salt investigation

Melting ice is always fun and super easy to set up.

Younger children usually enjoy ice excavations , and ice and salt experiments are great for older kids.

Ice investigations work well in summer as an outdoor science activity and in winter when it’s icy outdoors, too!

How to make a frozen bubble

It needs to be extremely cold to make a frozen bubble, but it’s worth a try if you get a cold snap. Fireflies and Mudpies show you how it’s done.

Frost on a can

This ice and salt investigation using a tin can is wonderfully visual. It’s even more fun if you turn the can into a frosty snowman ! Frost quickly appears outside the can, making it an excellent classroom science demonstration.

How do polar animals stay warm

Find out how polar bears and penguins stay warm in extreme temperatures using lard! Take care with this activity as the icy water can get very cold.

Another activity linked to polar animals is this ‘ Why don’t penguins freeze ?’ activity, which uses wax crayons to show how the waxy feathers of a penguin help them stay dry.

Snowman Catapult

Lolly stick catapults are easy to make and lead to many investigative opportunities. Make different-sized catapults and investigate to see how far different objects fly. We made a snowman themed catapult , but you can change the theme for any topic or time of year.

Ice Decorations

Ice decorations are lovely to hang off a tree in winter. Fill them with nature items or even small plastic toys.

Children can then observe how the decoration changes during the day or when the outside temperature increases.

Pretend Snow

Fake snow is excellent for all kinds of sensory play and activities. I made three different types, so have a go and choose your favourite.

Lift ice with a string

Freeze some water, put the ice into a bowl and pour a little water over the top. Place the string on the surface of the ice and sprinkle it with salt. Leave for a few minutes, and then gently try to lift the string. Find out how many ice cubes you can lift with one string .

Winter print and play science pack

My winter themed print and play science experiment pack contains five simple paper-based science activities, including jumping snowflakes, penguin shadow puppets and a water drop maze.

I also have lots of winter STEM Challenges you might like to try.

The best winter science experiment checklist!

Download my winter science experiment checklist and try them all!

Last Updated on January 19, 2024 by Emma Vanstone

Safety Notice

Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

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35+ Winter STEM Activities – Cool Hands-On Learning

Celebrate winter with some cool STEM Activities !

Around December 20 or 21 we celebrate the Winter Solstice every year. The shortest day of the year and officially the first day of winter. Living in Canada winter is a big part of our lives. Maybe not always a favourite, but when winter lasts so long you need to embrace it! To celebrate winter, we have used it as our inspiration for some amazing Winter STEM Activities. 

STEM Winter Activities

What you will discover in this article!

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STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Of course we love to spice things up a bit and include the A for STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math. I’ve chosen a wide variety of articles and activities that touch on various pillars of STEM, while maintaining one common theme: WINTER ! Mix and match to create your perfect Winter STEM lesson plans for the classroom or home!

I know these lists can get a little long and hard to navigate. To make things easier I’ve organized the winter STEM activities into the following categories based on their dominate lesson: Science, Engineering, Technology, Math, plus true STEM that includes extensive use of at least two of the pillars.

Before we get started though, I have some activities that celebrate and explore the seasons. Happy winter learning!

Winter STEM Activities – SEASONS

Celebrate Winter Solstice – Explore our innovative ideas for celebrating the Winter Solstice, plus learn more about how this important time of year is celebrated throughout history and around the world.

Build a Wheel of the Year – This activity is a wonderful hands-on learning exercise that kids absolutely love! The final product can be used over and over again. It is a wonderful STEM activity that incorporates fractions (dividing into quarters), art (choosing imagery to reflect the seasons), plus engineering (ensuring that it spins).

Solstice Science – Explore how and why our day lengths change throughout the year as we move from summer solstice to winter solstice.

Four Seasons Compound Words Code Breakers – This fun activity helps kids develop critical thinking and decoding skills, while also building vocabulary specific to the seasons.

STEM & STEAM ACTIVITIES

Snowball Catapults – Having a snowball fight with friends is one of the classic ways to have fun as a kid in winter! With this project we are bringing the snowball fight fun indoors. This is a great way to explore lots of physics concepts while having a blast!

Snowflake STEM Challenges are a great low prep way to celebrate the beauty and science of snowflakes. Learn all the fun ways you can make snowflakes and turn it into a wonderful winter STEM lesson.

Ice Lanterns – Engineering an Ice Lantern is a fantastic STEAM activity for winter, especially if you live in cold climates. It incorporates science (states of matter and expansion as water transitions to solid form), engineering, and art to make beautiful final results you can display with pride.

STEM Challenge – How Does Salt Affect Ice? – In this fascinating winter STEM challenge, we go beyond just seeing that salt helps to melt ice and can be used to create frost, but we use a little technology to record and measure the effects while manipulating variables. A fantastic inquiry based learning experience with spectacular results.

Confetti Cannon – Winter comes with a lot of great celebrations and what is better at a celebration that your very own confetti cannon!

WINTER SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS

Simple Snow Science Experiment – Of all the winter science activities you do with the kids, this is a must do! If you fill jars with equal amounts of ice, snow and water, do they really have the same amount of H2O? Make sure the kids make their predictions and form a hypothesis, then find out if they are right, in this simple science project that often surprises kids with the results!

Melting Snowman Oobleck Challenge – This is such a fun science challenge! Fantastic for doing in teams. Challenge your students to make a snowman with Oobleck (it’s like slime but so much cool with a non-Newtonian science twist!). It’s a fast paced science experiment where kids work hard to keep up the pressure, and keep that snowman solid, while placing his button eyes and carrot nose!

Frozen Oobleck – Continue your exploration of our favourite non-Newtonian Fluid by creating frozen Oobleck and having some icy cold science fun.

Make It Snow – This is an amazing experiment that can only be done under very specific weather conditions. But when those conditions are right, it’s spectacular! Kids create their very own snowstorm. Plus kids get to learn about the super cool Mpemba Effect.

Crystal growing – The winter months bring wonderful icy crystal formations as frost and icicles cover the world around us. You can grow your own crystals with this alum crystal experiment that looks like frost , or take it up a notch and grow yourself some gigantic crystals using this secret. Growing crystal snowflakes is a fantastic winter science activity.

Frozen Bubbles – I am so excited that we finally mastered the frozen bubble challenge! After all of our trial, error and much research into the science behind the perfect frozen bubble, I am beyond excited to share with you all the secrets behind making the perfect frozen bubble!

Winter Play Dough is a fun project for preschool that teaches kids about the science behind a playtime favourite! Learn how play dough gets it fun texture as you make this DIY play dough recipe, then challenge them to engineer and build a winter themed project.

Crush a Bottle with Science – Can you crush a pop bottle? Can you crush a pop bottle using nothing but your mind (and a little science)? Part science, part magic trick, this activity will have your kids out enjoying the cold weather.

Bath Bomb Chemistry – Winter is a fantastic time to embrace some of the most interesting STEAM projects we have ever done… bath bomb making! The creativity on these is endless. Plus the chemistry lessons are fascinating. Learn about acid-base reactions, emulsifiers and surfactants! Some of our favourite winter bath bomb recipes are Snowball Bath Bombs and Winter Storm Icicle Bath Bombs .

Winter Crystal Science – This is a straight out of the box Chemistry Lab from MEL Science that includes some fascinating experiments with wintery crystal growing. You even get to make your own instant snow! So cool!

Winter Lava Lamps – A fun twist on the traditional homemade lava lamp experiment , incorporating a wintery theme there are a few different variations you can try. Snow storms in a jar or Snowflake Lab .

Expanding Snowman – This one may get messy as your snowman gets bigger and bigger and bigger through a simple chemical reaction.

Google Maps Challenge – Using Google Maps, take a guess where in the world you think it might be snowy. Then zoom around the world through Google Maps and check out the satellite or street view. Were you right? Now check the photos from that area. Are there any snowy pictures? Try another place!

Winter Coding Picture Challenge – This free printable is available to STEAM Powered Family Mailing List members and is a simple introduction to coding that results in winter themed art.

Photography or Videography Challenge – Do you have a young photographer or videographer? Why not take them outside on a snowy but sunny day and have them try to to capture some images. What happens? How can you adjust for the overexposure issues? Need some prompts to get them started? You can unlock our free printable by joining the STEAM Powered Family mailing list here.

NatGeo for Kids has some great information and interactive content for learning about our wintery months.

Research all about the Winter Solstice with Earth Sky .

ENGINEERING

Spinning Snowflake STEM Card – Kids will love engineering these cards that include a snowflake that spins when the card is opened! A little engineering, a little physics, one WOW Worthy card!

Snow Dough Sensory Science – Not cold enough or snowy enough where you live for some of these science experiments? Try our Snow Dough ! This is a fun indoor snowman building challenge using our special, ultra silky moon dough recipe, reimagined into Snow Dough. Build a snowman without the chilly fingers! Then turn this into a chemistry experiment with the same technique as our fizzing ghosts experiment . A fantastic baking soda and vinegar science experiment.

Ice Engineering – Build your own ice sculptures and explore the many properties of ice with this cool kit. What amazing sculptures can you create with ice?

Ice Magnifying Glass – Engineer a magnifying glass from ice with this great tutorial. Or make a regular magnifying glass and take a close look at those snowflakes.

Catch Snowflakes – Engineer a super simple solution that will allow you to catch snowflakes and examine them without melting. Brilliant!

Snowman Math Logic Puzzles – These cute snowmen are all dressed up for the holidays and ready for some logic math fun inspired by Suduko. Includes free printable.

Place Value Snowmen – My oldest struggles with place value. For some reason this is a concept that simply doesn’t make sense to him and is requiring a lot of repetition and practice. These activity is perfect for a little winter practice on a snowy, wintery day.

Symmetrical Snowflakes – Are you teaching patterning and symmetry? This math activity explores these concepts while also teaching one of the most beautiful aspects of snowflakes, their natural symmetry.

Happy Winter Solstice! And all the best with your Winter STEM Activities! 

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5 Days of Smart STEM Ideas for Kids

Get started in STEM with easy, engaging activities.

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20+ Winter STEM Activities for Kids - Hands On Science

Make science fun and engaging with these STEM winter activities for kids . The best way to enjoy the winter season is to embrace it. Investigate and explore the beauty of winter with this amazing collection of winter STEM activities for kids .

The snow is falling. The wind chill is rattling the windows. Brrr.

Did you know that wintertime is the perfect time to get kids excited and interested in science? Yep, take advantage of those piles of snow, the snowflake, and those icy conditions. Get hands-on learning about chemistry, biology, engineering, and more. We've put together a list of awesome winter STEM activities for kids of all ages.

What is STEM?

If you aren't familiar with the term STEM , it refers to S cience, T echnology, E ngineering and M ath. So STEM activities involve one of these 4 areas of exploration. These activities will have your kids asking interesting questions and coming up with amazing observations and answers. Who is ready for a little winter learning?

What age group are these winter STEM activities for?

I've pulled together winter STEM activities for kindergarten kids through to STEM challenges for elementary school-aged kids. I will identify which activities are for which age group.

20+ Winter STEM Activities for Kids

Hot Chocolate Science  is a delicious science experiment. Examining what temperature the water needs to be to make a mug of hot chocolate - from Creative Family Fun . Great for young learners - p reschool winter STEM activity or kindergarten STEM activity .

Melting snowman baking soda science experiment from Little Bins for Little Hands . This activity is a simple hands-on winter STEM activity that will engage kindergarten-aged kids.

Engineer an igloo from marshmallows and toothpicks from Lemon Lime Adventures. This classic engineering activity is engaging for a wide range of kids. Perfect STEM activity for kindergarten and can be made more advanced for a winter STEM challenge for elementary kids.

Examine the impact of climate change on the polar bear's icy habitat . Looking at the environmental impacts on our polar bears is a great winter STEM challenge for elementary kids .

Discover how arctic animals stay warm in the cold water with I Can Teach My Child . Another great hands-on science STEM activity for kids from kindergarten to older elementary students.

Rainy Day Mum explores why salt works to melt icy roadways . Exploring the impact of salt on our roads is an interesting winter STEM challenge for elementary kids .

Learn about animal hibernation with The Natural Homeschooler . An interesting hibernation STEM activity that is fun for preschoolers and kindergarten learners.

Make frost on your kitchen counter with Life With Moore Babies. A simple STEM activity for young learners and can launch the beginnings of further learning about frost and ice formation for a STEM elementary student

How do snowflakes form ? Is snow simply frozen rain? Nope. Learn how snowflakes form and make your own. An engaging and active winter snow STEM activity for kids of all ages .

Little Bins for Little Hands shares how to make a snowstorm in a jar . How awesome is that? A creative winter snow STEM activity for kindergarten kids and preschoolers.

Here's a great winter STEM challenge for elementary kids and older. Feel Good Teaching shares the snowman stretch challenge - how tall will your snowman grow?

A Little Pinch of Perfect shares a creative snow STEM activity for kids. Build a snowflake using geometric shapes - perfect winter STEM activity for elementary kids.

Head outside and make frozen bubbles in the winter from Fireflies and Mudpies. Kids of all ages will have fun with this winter STEM challenge.

Compare melting ice and snow with this simple experiment from Steam Powered Family. Explore melting ice and snow with this winter STEM activity for elementary-aged kids. 

Arts & Crackers shares a fun melting snowman marshmallow in hot chocolate experiment . A winter STEM challenge for elementary kids that involves tracking and observation.

Craft Invaders teaches kids how to grow a snowflake in a jar . What a cool winter science activity!

Learn and have fun building an ice tower from dripping water with STEAMSational.

Don't let a lack of snow stop you from building a snowman. Living Life and Learning shares a fun winter science experiment - who can build the tallest marshmallow snowman?!

JDaniel4's Mom shares how to make a ski jumper and how you can have ski jumping competitions at home.

Here's a fun and super simple winter science activity for kids of all ages. 123 Homeschool For Me shares how to use basic ingredients to make an exploding snowman .

Challenge your kids/students to build the best winter home for animals . Teaching Ideas has pulled together everything you need to explore this winter engineering challenge .

Which winter science experiment will you try first?

More STEM Activities for Kids  

A collection of awesome Summer STEM Activities for Kids

Check out all of these cool snow STEM activities for kids . Learn all about snow.

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Jen Farr is a mother living in Toronto, Canada. She has been sharing her DIY crafts, recipes, activities and parenting advice for over 15 years on her blog Kitchen Counter Chronicle. Jen is the mom of 2 lovely daughters. She believes in the power of taking small steps that can make big impacts on the world.

Reader Interactions

Roxanne Philbin

February 12, 2021 at 5:28 am

I had so much fun doing the activities in the snow ❄❄😁😁😁😁❄❄❄❄❄❄

February 26, 2021 at 3:21 pm

Awesome! Glad you had fun!

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45 Fabulous 1st Grade Science Projects That Little Learners Will Love

Hands-on science is a surefire way to connect with every kid.

First graders will cheer when you announce that they’ll get to do a real, hands-on science experiment! These 1st grade science projects are easy for kids to do, with concepts that will help build their science knowledge for the future.

To make it even easier to find the best science projects for 1st graders, we’ve given each a rating based on difficulty and the materials you’ll need:

Difficulty:

• Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much anytime
• Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
• Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time and/or effort
• Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
• Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
• Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete

Animal and Nature Science Projects for 1st Grade

Weather science experiments for 1st grade.

• More 1st Grade Science Experiments and Projects

Learn about animals, plants, and the Earth in general with these fun science activities for first graders.

Sort animals by features

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Basic

Use a printable or pull out the toy animals and have kids sort them into categories. It’s an early introduction to classification systems.

Learn more: Animal Sort at Fairy Poppins

Build the layers of Earth with Play-Doh

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Basic ADVERTISEMENT

Another creative use for Play-Doh! Teach your students about the different layers of Earth and then have them create the layers using different colors of Play-Doh.

Learn more: Layers of the Earth at Evans Elementary School

Turn a plastic bag into a greenhouse

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Medium

Turn your 1st grade science class into gardeners! Use a damp paper towel in a plastic bag to allow them to see a seed sprouting and growing roots.

Learn more: Greenhouse Bag at Lessons for Little Ones

See how shadows change throughout the day

Start in the morning: Have kids stand in one spot on the playground while a partner traces their shadow with sidewalk chalk . Ask them what they think will happen when they stand in the same spot during the afternoon, then head back outside after lunch to find out.

Learn more: Shadow Experiment at The First Grade Roundup

Discover how plants drink water

Capillary action is the name of the game, and your 1st grade science kiddos will be amazed at the results. Place celery stalks in cups of colored water, and watch as the leaves change color!

Learn more: Capillary Action at Lessons for Little Ones

Build a bird feeder

Set young engineers loose with wood craft sticks , glue, and string to create a bird feeder. Then research the best seeds to fill them with, and hang them outside your classroom window to draw in some feathered friends.

Learn more: DIY Bird Feeder at Mombrite

Observe the birds at your feeder

Once your feeder is in place, teach kids to identify common birds and keep track of their visits. Report their findings to one of Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Citizen Science projects to let kids be part of real-life research. ( Find more bird-watching activities for kids here. )

Experiment with apples and oxidation

Apples turn brown when they’re cut open due to oxidation. Is there any way to prevent that from happening? This experiment aims to find out. ( Explore more apple activities here. )

Learn more: Apples Experiment at Camping Teacher

Use colorful beads to learn about camouflage

Animal camouflage is an important way for prey to protect itself from predators. To learn how effective it can be, place matching colored beads on top of a photo of wildflowers and see how long it takes students to find them all.

Learn more: Camouflage Activity at The First Grader Roundup

Expose a sponge fish to pollution

It’s never too early to start learning about how important it is to protect the Earth. Use sponge “fish” to see how polluted water affects the wildlife living in it.

Learn more: Pollution Experiment at The Owl Teacher

Dig in the dirt with claws

Animal adaptations allow creatures to live in just about every environment on Earth. Learn how claws help some animals survive and thrive by gluing plastic spoons to a glove.

Learn more: Claw Glove at The First Grade Roundup

Observe plant transpiration

Many plants take in more water than they need. What happens to the rest? Wrap a plastic bag around a living tree branch to see transpiration in action.

Learn more:  Leaf Transpiration at Teach Beside Me

Try these science activities to explore wind, rain, and more with your firsties.

Create a weather vane

A weather vane is one of the oldest scientific tools—they help people know which way the wind is blowing. Learn how to make your own with this cool weather experiment.

Learn more: Weathervane Experiment at Rookie Parenting

Grow a rainbow

Kids learn the colors of the rainbow along with chromatography as they watch marker streaks climb up and meet across a wet paper towel. The word might be a big one for little kids to learn, but they’ll love to see it in action!

Learn more: Grow a Rainbow at The Best Ideas for Kids

Make it rain

You need rain to make a rainbow. Simulate a rain cloud in a jar with shaving cream and food coloring, and see how the coloring saturates the “cloud” until it simply must fall.

Learn more: Shaving Cream Clouds at Fun Learning for Kids

Create frost in a can

This is an especially fun experiment during those chilly winter months. First, fill the can with ice and halfway with water. Then have the kids sprinkle salt in the can and cover the top. Finally, shake it and wait about three minutes for the frost to begin to appear.

Learn more: Frost in a Can at Kindergarten Worksheets and Games

Create an avalanche

Learn about the destructive power of an avalanche in a safe way with this experiment. All you need is flour, cornmeal, pebbles, and a plastic tray.

Learn more: Avalanche Experiment at A Dab of Glue Will Do

More 1st Grade Science Projects and Experiments

Looking for more? Try these experiments on a range of subjects to teach first graders all about science.

Give gummy bears a bath

Drop gummy bears into different liquid solutions to see how they change (or don’t) over time. Kids will learn about osmosis, as well as how scientists must be good observers.

Learn more: Gummy Bear Experiment at First Grade Buddies + Co

Play a DIY flute

These homemade flutes are fun to play, but they also help young kids learn about sound. Let them experiment with straw lengths to see what tones they can make.

Learn more: DIY Pan Flute at Buggy and Buddy

Play with Play-Doh to learn why we have bones

Ask kids to build a person from Play-Doh and see if it will stand on its own. Then show them how adding drinking straws gives it structure and strength, and explain that bones do the same for us! ( Get more clever ways to use Play-Doh in the classroom here. )

Learn more: Play-Doh Bones at Keeping My Kiddo Busy

Find out which objects magnets attract

Equip students with magnets and send them out to explore and discover which objects the magnet will stick to and which won’t. Record their findings on the free printable worksheet at the link.

Learn more: Magnet Science Experiments at Fairy Poppins

Grow a crystal garden

First grade science students might not grasp the concept of supersaturated solutions, but they’ll still love a good crystal project! Grab some magnifying glasses and let them examine the crystals up close (try not to touch, as they’re very fragile) to see the cool geometric structures.

Learn more: Crystal Garden at Babble Dabble Do

Build a jelly bean structure

If you’re doing this STEM project in the spring, jelly beans make the perfect base. If you can’t get a hold of jelly beans, try substituting tiny marshmallows in their place. Make sure to have some extras on hand since little hands are likely to snack as they build.

Learn more: Jellybean STEM Challenge at The STEM Laboratory

Experiment with marshmallow Peeps

Peeps used to just be an Easter treat, but these days you can find them in different shapes throughout much of the year. Use them to practice making predictions and recording observations with this sweet experiment.

Learn more: Easter Peeps Science Experiment at Gift of Curiosity

Spark excitement with static electricity

No doubt your 1st grade science students have already encountered static electricity by rubbing a balloon on their hair. This experiment takes things a step further, letting kids explore which objects an electrically charged balloon can pick up and which it can’t.

Learn more: Static Electricity Balloons at Kids Activities Blog

Melt crayons to explore solids and liquids

Dig out some old crayons and use them for this easy experiment that demonstrates the difference between liquids and solids. When you’re done, you’ll have a cool piece of art to display. ( Discover more uses for broken crayons here. )

Learn more: Melting Crayons at First Grade Circle

Talk through a paper cup phone

This classic experiment will help your 1st grade science class understand that sound travels in waves, through the air, and across other objects. Watching their faces light up when they hear whispers in their cups will make your day!

Learn more: Paper Cup Phone at There’s Just One Mommy

Blow a bubble snake

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

You’ll need to plan this experiment for a day with nice weather since it is best suited to outdoors. You will need an empty water bottle, a washcloth, a rubber band, a small bowl or plate, food coloring, scissors or box cutters, distilled water, dish soap, and Karo syrup or glycerin. There’s a lot of prep, but the end result is definitely worth it!

Learn more: Bubble Snakes at Hand 2 Mind

Learn why we have night and day

The Earth’s daily rotation gives us days and nights. This simple demo helps kids understand that. They draw a day scene and a night scene on a paper plate, then cover it with half of another plate that can be moved. This is an art project and 1st grade science experiment all rolled into one.

Learn more: Night and Day Play at Universe Awareness

Float food coloring on milk

Learn about surface tension by dropping food coloring onto different types of milk (whole, skim, cream, etc.). Then use dish soap to break down the fats and surface tension, and watch the colors dance!

Learn more: Surface Tension Milk at STEAMsational

Drop water onto a penny

Continue your exploration of surface tension by adding water drop-by-drop to a penny. The surface tension will allow you to add far more water than you might think.

Will it sink or swim?

Ask students to predict whether a variety of items will sink or float in water. Then test each object to check their hypotheses.

Blow up a balloon using yeast

This is similar to the classic lemon juice and baking soda experiment many kids do at some point. But this one is better for younger kids since you don’t have to worry about them splashing the juice in their eyes. Kids will be just as astonished at the results as the yeast eats the sugar and produces carbon dioxide gas!

Learn more: Yeast Balloon Experiment at The STEM Laboratory

Push on air

Teach your students about air compression and air pressure using a barrel, plunger, syringe, and flexible tube. Kids will definitely get a kick out of air wrestling and popping off their plungers using air pressure.

Learn more: Air Pressure Experiment at First Grade Adventurers

Test your reaction time

Do your students have lightning-quick reflexes? Find out with this easy experiment. One student holds a ruler vertically, while another places their hand just beneath and waits. When the first student drops the ruler, the second catches it as quickly as possible, seeing how many inches passed through their fingers first.

Learn more: Reaction Time Experiment at Science Sparks

Assemble a DIY lava lamp

Your firsties are too young to remember the lava lamp craze, but this science project will give them a taste of it as they learn about liquid density.

Learn more: Salt Volcano Lava Lamp at What Do We Do All Day?

Learn the scientific method with candy

See the scientific method in action as kids hypothesize what will happen to various types of candy in the hot sun. Observe, record, and analyze your results to see if their predictions were correct.

Learn more: Candy Scientific Method Activity at Playdough to Plato

Look into mirrors to discover symmetry

By now, 1st grade science students may have noticed that mirrors reflect objects backward. Ask them to write the alphabet in capital letters, then hold it up to the mirror. Which letters are the same when they’re reflected? Use those findings to talk about symmetry.

Learn more: Mirror Symmetry at Buggy and Buddy

Create a super-simple circuit

This is the perfect way to introduce the concept of electricity to young students since the materials and steps are minimal. You will need a D battery, tinfoil, electrical tape, and a light bulb from a flashlight.

Learn more: Super-Simple Circuit at What Do We Do All Day?

“Bend” a pencil using light refraction

Tell your students you’re going to bend a pencil without touching it. Drop it into a glass of water and have them look at it from the side. Light refraction makes it appear to be in two pieces!

Learn more: Bending Pencil Experiment at STEAMsational

Roll marbles to explore momentum

Momentum is “mass in motion,” but what does that really mean? Find out by rolling marbles of different sizes down rulers placed at various slopes.

Learn more: Momentum Experiments at Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls

Dunk eggs to understand dental health

Grown-ups are always telling kids sugary drinks are bad for their teeth, so try this experiment to put your money where your mouth is! Eggshells are a good substitute for teeth since they’re both made of calcium. Leave eggs in different kinds of beverages to see which ones do the most damage to the shells.

Learn more: Dental Health Eggs at First Grade Funtastic

Melt ice cubes to make new colors

Color mixing is one of those incredibly cool activities that kids will want to try again and again. Make ice cubes using primary colors, then let them melt together to see what new colors you can create.

Learn more: Color Mixing at Gift of Curiosity

Fly a paper airplane

Kid absolutely love creating and flying paper airplanes, so this experiment is sure to be a hit. Have your students create different-style planes and then experiment with thrust and lift to see which fly the farthest, highest, etc.

Weigh items with a homemade balance scale

Make a simple balance scale with a coat hanger, yarn, and some plastic cups. Have students gather items from around the classroom, make predictions about which will be heavier, then test their hypothesis.

Learn more: DIY Balance Scale at WikiHow

If you love 1st grade science, be sure to check out these 25 First Grade STEM Challenges .

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20 Exciting Winter Science Experiments

Welcome to the world of Winter Science Experiments, where chilly temperatures meet the wonders of scientific discovery!

As the temperature drops and the snowflakes dance, we have curated a sensational compilation of the top 20 captivating and awe-inspiring hands-on science experiments.

By engaging in winter science experiments, students of all age can deepen their understanding of scientific concepts and cultivate a sense of curiosity and wonder.

So, grab your lab coats, awaken your scientific interest, and prepare to embark on an exciting journey into the world of winter science experiments with us.

1. Snowstorm in a Jar

The Snowstorm Experiment is an exciting venture that allows students to observe and understand the fascinating process behind the formation of snowflakes.

By recreating a miniature snowstorm indoors, students can uncover the scientific principles governing snowflake creation and explore the beauty of this natural phenomenon right in their own classroom or home.

2. Snow Volcano

The Snow Volcano Experiment offers students a captivating journey into the world of winter science, combining the allure of volcanoes with the charm of snow.

Through this hands-on experience, students can explore scientific principles, cultivate their creativity, and unleash the frosty fury of their very own snow volcano.

Learn more: Snow Volcano

3. Magnetic Ice Paint

One experiment that is sure to spark their imagination is the magnetic ice paint experiment.

By combining the enchantment of winter with the power of magnetism, students can create their own magnetic ice paint and unlock a world of scientific exploration.

Learn more: Magnetic Ice Paint

4. Ice Painting

The Ice Painting experiment offers an exciting fusion of artistic expression and scientific exploration. By using ice as a canvas and vibrant colors as their paint, students can create stunning frozen artworks that capture the essence of winter.

5. Frozen Bubbles

The Frozen Bubbles Experiment invites students to embark on a captivating journey into the wonderland of winter science.

By exploring the magical transformation of soap bubbles into frozen marvels, students deepen their understanding of scientific principles while marveling at the beauty of nature’s delicate creations.

Learn more: Frozen Bubbles

5. Ice Excavation

The Ice Excavation Experiment immerses students in the fascinating process of freeing objects trapped within blocks of ice.

By freezing various objects or specimens in water and then meticulously excavating them, students gain insight into the forces of freezing and melting while honing their observational skills.

Learn more: Lego Ice Excavation

6. Exploding Snowman

What if we could add an exciting twist to the traditional snowman building activity? In this captivating winter science experiment, students can explore the fascinating concept of chemical reactions by creating an exploding snowman.

7. Melting Colorful Ice

One intriguing project to try during this frosty time is the melting ice science experiment with salt. This experiment combines simple ingredients and scientific principles to create an engaging, hands-on learning experience.

Learn more: How to Do a Melting Ice Science Project with Salt

8. Melting Snowman

Have you ever wondered what happens when a snowman starts to melt? In this captivating winter science experiment, students can explore the process of melting snowmen and uncover the scientific principles behind it.

Learn more: Melting Snowman

9. How do Penguins Stay Dry

Have you ever wondered how penguins stay dry in freezing water? In this engaging winter science experiment, students can unravel the secret behind penguins’ ability to stay dry.

Learn more: How do Penguins Stay Dry

10. Grow Your Own Giant Crystal Snowflakes

Winter is a season of frosty wonders, and what better way to embrace its magic than by growing your own giant crystal snowflakes?

In this captivating winter science experiment, students can explore the fascinating process of crystal formation and create their very own magnificent snowflake sculptures.

11. Rainbow Instant Ice

This experiment combines the beauty of colors with the enchantment of ice, creating a mesmerizing and educational experience for students.

12. Fishing for Ice

Winter is a season of frozen landscapes and unique scientific opportunities. One intriguing experiment that students can dive into is “Fishing for Ice.” This captivating activity combines the excitement of fishing with the wonder of freezing temperatures.

13. How to Keep Ice Longer

By exploring various methods and materials, students can discover the secrets to extending the lifespan of ice, whether for chilling beverages or creating lasting winter decorations.

14. Make an Igloo

Winter brings snowy landscapes and a sense of wonder, making it the perfect time for students to engage in a captivating winter science experiment: building an igloo.

15. Melting Frozen Hands

Winter is a season that brings frosty temperatures and the perfect opportunity for students to engage in captivating science experiments. One experiment that is sure to pique their interest is the “Melting Frozen Hands” experiment.

Learn more: Melting Frozen Hands \

16. Snowflake Art

What if we could combine art with science and create our own unique snowflake masterpieces? In this captivating winter science experiment, students can explore the fascinating world of salt snowflake art.

17. How Do Arctic Animals Stay Warm in the Water

In this captivating winter science experiment, students can dive into the fascinating world of arctic adaptations and explore how these incredible animals survive in extreme conditions.

Learn More: Arctic Animals

18. Fizzing Ice

We’ll explore a chilly and captivating experiment called “Fizzing Ice.” As temperatures drop and frosty landscapes emerge, we’ll harness the power of science to create a dazzling display of fizzing and bubbling ice.

19. Instant Ice Experiment

Learn about a mind-boggling phenomenon known as “Instant Ice.” Imagine the thrill of transforming ordinary water into solid ice in a matter of seconds.

20. The Snowman Experiment

Making a snowman using molded balloon water. But we’re not stopping there! We’ll take our snowman experiment to the next level by observing the fascinating difference in melting when one snowman is placed outside while the other remains indoors.

Learn more: The Snowman Experiment

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• 68 Best Chemistry Experiments: Learn About Chemical Reactions
• Top 100 Fine Motor Skills Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers
• Top 50 Fun Food Science Experiments

10 Fantastic Winter Science Experiments for Kindergarten

Categories Winter STEM Activities , Science Experiments

If you’re looking for winter science experiments for kindergarten, you’re in the right place! We’ve tried dozens of kindergarten winter science experiments and rounded-up our favorites below!

We love to make kindergarten science experiments seasonal, and always love to include science in our creative STEM activities for kids!

Keep reading to discover the best winter science experiments for kindergarten.

Kindergarten Winter Science Lesson Plans

If you are teaching winter science in kindergarten this year, you’ll find these winter science lesson plans really helpful!

The January STEM challenges offer fun winter-themed science lesson plans perfect for the kindergarten classroom!

Grab a free set below!

And if you want to make your own winter science lesson plans, keep reading to view our favorite winter experiments for kindergarten.

You may also like these winter STEM challenges for your kindergarten classroom.

Winter Science Supply List

If you don’t have these science supplies for your kindergarten science experiments, shop the supply list below!

Winter Science for Kindergarten

In kindergarten, winter science is all about learning about weather, dressign for the weather, types of weather, seasons, how ice and snow form, and learning how things change during the winter!

We really love doing winter science for kindergarten and it’s super fun to see them engage so much with the winter science themes.

Kindergarten kids can also learn about how animals stay warm during the winter and about the science magic of snowflakes!

Keep reading and discover our favorite kindergarten winter science experiments.

Our Favorite Winter Science Experiments for Kindergarten

What we love about these kindergarten winter science experiments is that they don’t require freezing temperatures.

We love the idea of many ice and freezing science experiments, but we live in Texas, and it only freezes a few times a year here.

So many winter science experiments are out of our reach.

But not these!

If you like these winter science experiments for kindergarten, you’ll also want to check out this list of winter science experiments for elementary.

But if you do live in a place with snow, check out these snow science experiments!

Here are our favorite winter experiments for kindergarten!

How to Make a Magnifying Glass- from ICE!

This is one of our most favorite winter science experiments for kindergarten. Kids can learn how changing the shape of ice can transform it into a magnifying glass.

How to Make Instant Ice in 5 Seconds

This is a super fun winter science experiment that will fascinate kindergarten kids. You will need a freezer for this one, but if you don’t have a freezer in your class, you can probably use the teacher lounge freezer!

Fizzing Snowflakes

Watch the video below to learn how to make fizzing snowflake reactions!

How Does Frost Form Science Experiment

In this fun jar science experiment, kids learn how frost forms and what can make frost form faster or slower. Kindergarten kids will love this one!

Ice Cream in a Bag Science Experiment

Ice cream in a bag can be a summer or winter experiment, but we like doing it in the winter!

Learn how moving something around can change it’s form from liquid to solid!

Snow Storm in a Jar Science Fair Project

Kindergarten kids will love learning about the weather by making a snow storm in a jar. This is one my kids ask to repeat year after year!

Easy Homemade Snow Globe

Mix lava lamp science with engineeiring when you make your own snow globes!

Borax Crystal Snowflakes

We love borax crystals because they are easy to make and look so pretty! This snowflake version is perfect for the kindergaten classroom.

How to Make Frost in a Can

If you have ice, salt, and a can, you can make frost! Show kindergarten kids how frost works with this simple winter science experiment.

Oil and Water Science Experiment

This is a fun freezy twist on the classic oil and water science experiment. Use it to show kids how some things won’t mix and how freezing something can change its form.

Simple Winter Slime Recipe

Kindergarten kids love slime, and this winter slime recipe is low-mess and so much fun for younger kids to make and play with.

Winter STEM Activities by Grade Level

Try these winter STEM activities for each grade level! There is something for everyone on this list.

Winter Science Experiments for Toddlers

Winter STEM Activities for Preschool

Winter Science Experiments for Preschool

Winter STEM Activities for Kindergarten

Winter STEM Activities for 1st Grade

Winter STEM Activities for 2nd Grade

Winter STEM Activities for 3rd Grade

Winter STEM Activities for 4th Grade

Winter STEM Activities for 5th Grade

Winter STEM Activities for Middle School

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Where play and imagination meet!

25 Super Cool Winter Science Experiments For Kids

December 4, 2019 Mary Malcolm

Kids love to learn! But sometimes in winter, it seems like it gets too cold to do much other than bundle up in front of something warm and try your best not to shiver. It doesn’t have to be that way, though!

Don’t let your child’s inquisitive mind hibernate! These super cool winter science experiments are a way to keep them engaged in exciting learning all winter long!

Have a cool time with these winter experiments!

Super Awesome and Cool Winter Science Experiments

1. magic glowing mud.

Oobleck is going to seem boring compared to this magic glowing mud experiment from Kids Activities Blog – and it’s made from potatoes!

2. Homemade Bouncing Snowball

This super bouncy snowball by Coffee Cups and Crayons really bounces! How cool is that?

3. Learn How Frost Forms

This experiment from 123 Homeschool 4 Me will let your kids learn all about frost and where it comes from!

4. Snowflakes Experiment

Forget going outside, now you and your kids can make snowflakes in the comfort of your kitchen in this experiment from Blissfully Domestic!

5. Crystal Suncatchers

Beautiful crystal suncatchers look just like an ice-covered window when you do this experiment from Babble Dabble Do!

6. Fake Snow Experiment

Make some fake snow to play with inside where it’s nice and toasty warm. Fun times with kids with this idea from Playtivities!

7. Ice Fishing Experiment

Did you know you can go fishing for ice … with ice? This fun experiment from A Dab Of Glue Will Do will leave your kids 100% amazed with their fishing skills!

8. Frozen Bubbles

This beautiful frozen bubble activity by Housing a Forest will give your kids a thrill. Just wait ’til you see what happens when they pop!

9. Cocoa Experiment

Did your kids ever wonder why hot cocoa stays dry until it’s stirred? Now your kids can find out in this experiment from Creative Family Fun!

10. Keep Warm Experiment

How do arctic animals stay warm in the winter? Find out in this fun experiment from The Science Kiddo!

11. Penguin Feathers Experiment

Penguins swim and play in the snow, but they stay dry . Check out how in this super cool experiment from Raising Little Superheroes!

12. Ice Lanterns

These ice lanterns by Willow Day are beautiful to make, and actually light up in the dark.

13. Ice Melting Experiment

How does ice melt under different conditions? What makes it melt fastest? Find out in this science experiment from The Chaos and the Clutter!

14. Cool DIY Iceberg

This experiment from PBS will let your kiddo build their own iceberg and figure out where different things freeze.

15. Easy Ice Creation

Did you know you can create ice instantly ? This experiment from Raising Lifelong Learners shows you how!

16. Electric Circuit Lesson

Let your kids learn about electric circuits by using an old Christmas light and a battery in this fun experiment from Education!

17. Ice and Color Sculptures

These beautiful ice and color sculptures from Artful Parent are even prettier once you use salt to melt them down!

18. Frozen-Inspired Rock Candy

This delicious rock candy from Simply Designing is fun to make, and this peppermint version looks like it came straight out of Frozen!

19. Colorful Puddle Experiment

Your kids will have a blast making colorful puddles with this fun experiment from Lemon Lime Adventures!

20. Cool Reindeer Toothpaste

This reindeer toothpaste experiment by Playdough to Plato is an explosion of fun that your kids will be talking about for years to come!

21. Snowstorm in a Jar

Create a beautiful snowstorm in a jar using Alka Seltzer and the steps from Play Learn Grow!

22. Amazing Snow Volcano

Your child’s imagination is going to overflow with this amazing snow volcano experiment from Play Learn Grow!

23. Snowflake Prisms

Learn all about prisms using snowflakes with this fun experiment from Buggy and Buddy!

24. Float or Sink Experiment

Will these conversation hearts float or sink ? You’ll find out how they hold up with these different liquids in this fun experiment from The Stem Laboratory!

25. Winter Smelling Activity

Can your kids identify the different smells of winter ? What makes them stand out? Find out with this fun experiment from Babble Dabble Do!

More Fun Winter Activities for Kids from Play Ideas!

• Try these trendy  succulent Christmas trees  to design your home this year!
• These printable  12 Days of Christmas gift ideas for teachers  are awesome to have this holiday season!
• Make these  lovely winter wreaths  to welcome your loved ones back home!
• Winter art projects for kids of all ages  are in for this cold winter time!
• Make these yummy winter-themed snacks for your kids and their friends!
• Your little ones will love these fragrant  winter playdough recipes  they can play with!
• These  snow-themed ice activities  will make your kids love the winter season even more!

Which cool and awesome winter experiment is your kiddo’s favorite?