Bring in books about hibernation and talk about what animals hibernate and for how long. Make a chart comparing the hibernation period for each animal and ask children to arrange the animals from shortest to longest hibernation period. Help children slow down and relax by holding a classroom hibernation period each day. Scatter blankets and pillows throughout the room and turn the lights down low. Have each child pick out a story book and curl up in a different spot throughout the room for 20 minutes of "hibernation."
Teach children about the differences among seasons by taking a winter walk. Bundle children up in warm winter clothing, then head outside with notebooks and a camera. As you walk, ask children to look out for any creatures or nature items that they see. Whenever children spot an interesting item, take a photo of it. When you get inside, print the photos and hang them on poster board. Ask children to draw their own versions of each photo on the board.
If you live in an area with snow, there are plenty of teaching opportunities right outside your door. After a fresh snowfall, take children outdoors. Have children wear dark-colored gloves or give them pieces of dark fabric to hold in their hands. Have children scoop up some snow, then closely study the snowflakes in their hands. Ask children to make observations about their snowflakes. To made edible treats, have children collect bowlfuls of undisturbed snow. Put out bowls of shredded coconut, chocolate sauce and fruit juice. Let each child create his own cool treat by pouring flavorings over his bowl of snow.
Crafts help children build motor skills, so put them to work when you're stuck inside. Have children draw snowman shapes onto wax paper using liquid glue, filling in each circle completely. Children can add buttons or beads as decoration. Slip one half of a paper clip into the top of the snowman, then let the glue dry completely. Peel the snowman off the paper and hang it from the clip. Children can also cut snowflakes from white paper or make winter mobiles. Have children draw pictures of things they'd find in winter, then hang the pictures from a twig or coat hanger.