Books for Kids That Celebrate Getting Outside in the Winter

by ParentCo. January 20, 2016

First Snow by Peter McCarty (2015)


Cousin Pedro is coming to visit. He’s never seen snow, and he doesn’t think he’ll like it--too cold. But Sancho, Bella, Lola, Ava, and Maria jump at the opportunity to introduce him to all the adventure and fun that snow makes possible. McCarty’s ink-and-watercolor illustrations lend appealing textures to Pedro and the rest of the anthropomorphic animal cast.

A great pick for the child who might need a little encouragement to brave the blustery outdoors. (Recommended for ages 4-8)

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962; anniversary edition 2012)


This Caldecott Award-winning classic follows Peter as he explores his urban neighborhood the morning following a snowfall. Bundled in his iconic red snowsuit, Peter revels in the simple joys of building a snowman and making snow angels, while Keats’ bright collage-style illustrations highlight the magic of a city blanketed in snow.

A perfect picture book with universal themes of independence, exploration, and the comfort of sharing your adventures with a loved one at the end of a busy day. (Recommended for ages 2 and up)

Toys Meet Snow by Emily Jenkins, illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky (2015)


The delightful plush protagonists of Jenkins’ previous chapter book series make their picture book debut. The Little Girl is away, so her toys Lumphy, StingRay, and Plastic (a red rubber ball who can’t help it that her name doesn’t match her body) set out to explore the first snowfall of the year.

The toys wonder and wander through a wintry afternoon, discussing their discoveries in terms both poetic and practical. Just like the day’s culminating delicious strawberry-red sunset, Jenkins’ prose and Zelinsky’s soft digital illustrations make this a sweet treat.(Recommended for ages 3-7)




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