While winter winds blow and indoor days grow long, there’s still a world of discovery waiting inside your home. With a little imagination (and some cozy mittens nearby), everyday materials can become the spark for big learning moments.

At Children’s Discovery Center, we believe the benefits of learning through play go far beyond the classroom. That’s why we’re sharing three simple, hands-on learning activities that invite your child to explore, experiment and create no matter how chilly it gets outside.

Try These STEAM Activities At Home

Winter may keep us indoors, but discovery never stops. These simple activities show the science of play in supporting creativity, curiosity and meaningful connection. By turning everyday moments into learning opportunities, you’re nurturing your child’s confidence, joy and growing mind.

Snowstorm in a Jar

This at-home weather experiment mixes science and sensory play to create exciting winter wonderment and memories your family will cherish.

What you’ll need:

• Clear glass jar or plastic container
• Baby oil
• White paint or food coloring
• Alka-Seltzer tablets
• Water

What to do:

Fill the jar halfway with baby oil. In a separate cup, mix white paint or food coloring into water, then pour it into the jar (leaving space at the top). Break an Alka-Seltzer tablet in half and drop it in. Watch the “snowstorm” swirl to life!

What kids are learning:

This simple experiment introduces scientific concepts such as density, reactions and observation, all while creating a magical, snow-like scene. Encourage your child to describe what they see and ask questions about why it’s happening.

Frozen Treasure Hunt

A mix of engineering and problem-solving will provide your child with an icy at-home exploration that’s fun for the whole family. (Get more cool inspiration from our Polar Regions project!)

What you’ll need:

• Small waterproof toys or objects
• Ice cube trays or plastic containers
• Water
• Salt, warm water and eye droppers/spoons

What to do:

Freeze small toys in ice molds overnight. Then, set your child up with salt, warm water and droppers or spoons to “rescue” the treasures from the ice.

What kids are learning:

This hands-on activity builds critical thinking and fine motor skills while teaching about temperature, melting and cause-and-effect. It also invites problem-solving. For example, “What happens if I use salt first? Or warm water?”

Cozy Fort Construction

There’s no limit to what structures our imagination can create! Engage your child’s artistic side and dabble in architecture, too, by building a cozy fort together from pieces found around your home.

What you’ll need:

• Blankets, pillows, chairs
• Flashlights or string lights
• Books, stuffed animals or drawing supplies

What to do:

Let your child lead the fort-building process using blankets and furniture. Once the fort is ready, climb inside for a story, quiet play or art time by flashlight.

What kids are learning:

This open-ended project supports Reggio Emilia principles by allowing children to guide their own exploration. They’ll learn spatial awareness, teamwork and self-expression, all while creating a cozy, creative retreat.

Discover the CDC Difference

Want even more ideas? Our classrooms are filled with activities like these that are designed to spark wonder and help your child thrive. For more than 40 years, Children’s Discovery Center has helped guide and expand the minds of Toledo’s youngest explorers. Our nurturing staff helps children become lifelong learners by providing an innovative environment that promotes self-led discovery. Contact us today to learn more about our Reggio Emilia curriculum, register your child and tour our facilities.