Impacting Instruction: Snow Day Challenge

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Is there anything better than a snow day? The excitement of an unplanned day of leisure? Not for most kids and educators. After the initial excitement wears off, reality sets in. What to do with this unexpected treasure? Try one, or two, or all of the challenges below!

Relax (and nap)

Many children, especially teens, are sleep deprived. While it is difficult to "catch up", a snow day is a great opportunity to make up for some deficit hours. Hopefully you slept in. Even if you did, take a nap. That's right! One of your challenges today is to TAKE A NAP! Right after you read this article: Many Teens Fall Short On Sleep.

Play Outside

Busy, busy schedules mean outdoor time, especially in winter, may be limited. The wind chill is in the single digits, so dress appropriately (hats, gloves, boots, scarf) but enjoy the snow today.

Make a snow angel
Make a snow man/woman/child/animal
Build a snow cave
Organize a snowball fight
take a walk (with a shovel, maybe earn some money shoveling driveways)

Act of Kindness

Plan or participate in an Act of Kindness. Make a card for a relative, neighbor, teacher or friend. Send a text message of encouragement. Shovel the sidewalk (for FREE) or driveway for someone who is not feeling well or elderly. Use social media to share a positive message. You can think of possibilities while you're outside playing.

Read

Everyday is a reading day. But snow days may be the best reading days. Somewhere between playing outside and taking your nap, READ. Reading does not have to be fiction, or a book. Explore a topic you're interested in over the Internet. My recommendations:

Black History Month - find heroes you haven't learned about in school. The History Channel has a dedicated webpage with articles, movies, spoken word and more.
Read to someone. A younger sibling. Your parent, sitter. Favorite pet. Reading aloud helps your understanding, fluency and retention of information. And it's fun to change your voice for different characters! Should some passages be read quietly? Some shouted? How do you express emotion while reading aloud?
ebooks are available through the Michigan eLibrary Book Flix and the St. Clair County Library Overdrive account (please note - you will need an active library card for SCCL ebooks).

Share with Port Huron Schools media sites how you are enjoying your snow day! Bonus if your picture includes one of the above challenges!