Winter Books, Crafts, Recipes and More for Preschool and Kindergarten

After Christmas is over, there’s still plenty of winter left. Are you looking for winter books or crafts for your preschool or kindergarten aged children? Check out this list of winter books, crafts, recipes, and activities that includes topics such as snowmen, polar bears, penguins and more.

Winter Books, Crafts, Recipes and More for Preschool and Kindergarten

1. The Snowy Day

Winner of the Caldecott Medal, this book celebrates its 50th birthday this year. Follow the story of Peter and his first snowfall in this beautiful classic.

Ready to learn? Head over to Homeschool Share and grab a Snowy Day lapbook printable.

Looking for some science ideas? You can teach your children about freezing, melting, and more!

2. Ten on the Sled 

Want to make your children dissolve into a pile of giggles? Check out this story of the forest animals’ wild ride.

I’m a sucker for handprint crafts — like this adorable walrus at Creativity Takes Flight.

3. Snowmen at Night 

Wonder what snowmen do at night? Don’t miss this story of snowmen’s secret lives!

Beth from Living Life Intentionally has a wonderful snowman printable pack for children ages 2 to 7.

4. Polar Bear Night 

Put your little ones to bed with a bedtime tale of a polar bear cub exploring the Arctic night.

Have some hands-on fun with this polar bear craft from I Heart Crafty Things.

5. Owl Moon

Another Caldecott Medal winner, this classic book follows a girl and her father as they go owling on a moonlit night. If you’ve got boys in your house, be sure and check out author Jane Yolen’s other works.

Break out your paints and create these paper plate owls from Crafts by Amanda.

More Owl Moon activities and a free printable packet:

6. There was a Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow

Ready for some laughs? This take on the old lady who swallowed a fly will make you and your children laugh, despite the cold weather.

Here’s a fun and free printables packet with polar animals:

7. 365 Penguins 

What would happen if you discovered a penguin on your doorstep every single day? One would be cute, but 365? Find out what happens in this wintertime story.

Paper plate crafts are simple, but fun. Add this penguin from CraftJr to your craft box.

8. Learning to Ski with Mr. Magee

Follow the story of M. Magee and his little dog Dee as they learn to ski.

When it’s craft time, try your hands at a ski collage from Activity Village.

9. Brave Irene

Irene, the dressmaker’s daughter helps out her mother by delivering a dress in the middle of a fierce snowstorm. Her story of bravery will inspire your children.

Make your very own snow storm with a snow globe craft.

 10. The Mitten 

If you pay close attention to Jan Brett’s work, you’ll often see foreshadowing in the detailed margins. This tale of the animals in a snowy forest has been delighting readers for 20 years.

My friend Carissa has wonderful story props for The Mitten on her site – you can act the story out with your kids at home.

Do you have a favorite book that I left off my list? Be sure and let me know in the comment box!

Here are some more posts about winter activities:

1. Brightening Winter With Poetry Collages
2. 10 Educational Activities For Winter
3. Winter Art – Pine Brush Painting
4. How To Beat The Winter Homeschooling Doldrums

Free February Printables for Kids (including printable valentines)

Disclosure: Winter Books, Crafts, Recipes and More for Preschool and Kindergarten contains affiliate links. They don’t change the price you pay. However, when you shop through them, we may receive a small compensation.

Post originally published January 2, 2013. Updated January 2, 2018.