1. Blizzard by John Rocco
Based on the author's experience of a real-life blizzard from when he was a boy, this picture book shows kids what a huge snowstorm is really like. The main character ends up strapping on snowshoes and braving it to the store to get groceries and supplies for his family and neighbors--a great lesson in kindness, perseverance, and helping others.
2. Penguin Problems by Jory Jon and Lane Smith
2. Penguin Problems by Jory Jon and Lane Smith
Look. Penguins have a lot of problems, okay? It's cold outside, there are seals that want to eat them, and they all look the same. What's a penguin to do? This hilarious, cynical story is also a hit with older students.
3. Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner and Mark Buehner
3. Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner and Mark Buehner
Ever wonder what snowmen do when you're not looking? The narrator in this book does, and he's got some pretty imaginative ideas. Told in rhyming verse and jewel-toned illustrations, this book will delight children's imaginations and have everyone smiling.
4. Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter by Kenard Pak
4. Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter by Kenard Pak
A brother and sister go exploring outside and notice the signs of the seasons changing: falling leaves, bare trees, animals getting ready for winter, the first signs of snow. The text is sparse but concise, and the whimsical watercolors feel cozy and will have kids making connections between what they've seen--and help them know what to look for. This is a great one to read before a nature walk, or even before recess!
5. The Story of Snow: The Science of Winter's Weather by Jon Nelson and Mark Cassino
This nonfiction read aloud teaches about what snowflakes look like, how they form, and much more about the science of snow. I like this one because it's a little simpler than some kids' science books, making it easier to read out loud and share with young students. The book includes both photographs and drawings, and is sure to get students to look closer at snow. If you live somewhere snowy, it also includes directions for catching and studying snowflakes!
6. Owl Moon by Jane Yolen and John Schoenherr
On a winter night, a girl and her father go on a walk in the woods, hoping to see an owl. The night is quiet and still, and they know that even if they don't see an owl, they will still have had a beautiful walk through nature. This book uses beautiful language to focus on people's relationship to the natural world, and its perspective is especially important today.
7. Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin and Mary Azarian
Ever wondered how we know so much about snowflakes? Wilson Bentley, born in 1865, thought snowflakes were miraculous--so much so that he made it his life's work to photograph these tiny works of art. His talents and interest weren't always understood when he was alive, and this book pays tribute to him while telling an engrossing story. I've found this book to be a good read aloud for all elementary students; the pages include science facts in the margins that you can skip over or include, depending on your audience (or your time constraints). Snowflake Bentley also won the Caldecott Medal for its detailed, wood-carving illustrations. Show pictures of real snowflakes after reading to show students what Bentley saw.
What are your favorite winter read alouds? Favorite extension activities? Share below!
5. The Story of Snow: The Science of Winter's Weather by Jon Nelson and Mark Cassino
This nonfiction read aloud teaches about what snowflakes look like, how they form, and much more about the science of snow. I like this one because it's a little simpler than some kids' science books, making it easier to read out loud and share with young students. The book includes both photographs and drawings, and is sure to get students to look closer at snow. If you live somewhere snowy, it also includes directions for catching and studying snowflakes!
6. Owl Moon by Jane Yolen and John Schoenherr
On a winter night, a girl and her father go on a walk in the woods, hoping to see an owl. The night is quiet and still, and they know that even if they don't see an owl, they will still have had a beautiful walk through nature. This book uses beautiful language to focus on people's relationship to the natural world, and its perspective is especially important today.
Ever wondered how we know so much about snowflakes? Wilson Bentley, born in 1865, thought snowflakes were miraculous--so much so that he made it his life's work to photograph these tiny works of art. His talents and interest weren't always understood when he was alive, and this book pays tribute to him while telling an engrossing story. I've found this book to be a good read aloud for all elementary students; the pages include science facts in the margins that you can skip over or include, depending on your audience (or your time constraints). Snowflake Bentley also won the Caldecott Medal for its detailed, wood-carving illustrations. Show pictures of real snowflakes after reading to show students what Bentley saw.
What are your favorite winter read alouds? Favorite extension activities? Share below!
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