Stuffed Animal Sledding Party

[30 Minutes]

Everyone already knows how much fun it is to go sledding on beautiful white snow – or even to be pulled around on a sled. But the favorite friends – the stuffed buddies of your child all too often get left out. Bundle up your favorite stuffed friends and take them out for a sledding party!

You'll need:

• snow – of any kind! • warm boots and clothes to play in the snow • a small hill or area free from obstacles and clear of traffic to sled • one sled • 2 or more stuffed animals to go along for the ride • warm hot chocolate

What to do:

1. Explain to your child that the object of the activity is to get your favorite stuffed friends outside to get some fresh air and to have fun by going sledding!
2. With your child, gather everything you'll need.

How to play:

1. Choose the area where you plan to sled. If there is a hill – explain that he will need to secure his stuffed animals on the sled as he pulls it up the hill. You may have to help pull the sled.
2. When sledding down the hill, for safety reasons, join your child on the sled.
3. If you’re pulling your sled – show him how to pull the sled without jerking it. Experiment going fast and slow.
4. Encourage your child to check on his friends to be sure they’re safe and warm.
5. Make paths through the snow and around trees to make it more fun.
6. Toward the end of the sledding party, you may ask your child to get on the sled so you can do the pulling.
7. At the end of your ride, celebrate with a cup of hot chocolate.

Let's Talk: Ideas to Explore Together.

• Do you think your stuffed animal friends had fun in the fresh air? What do you think they liked about the fresh air?
• Did they like the snow? What did they like about the snow?
• Do you think the fresh air is good for you and your friends? Why?

Useful information:

While you are having fun together, this activity provides experiences for developing creative thinking skills and imagination.