Things to talk about while coloring
Snowflakes form high in the clouds when tiny water droplets freeze into ice crystals. Most snowflakes have six sides or six branches, just like this big one. The next time it snows, catch a few on a dark mitten or coat and look closely before they melt. Snowflakes come in many shapes, from flat stars to tiny columns, depending on how cold and damp the air is.
Coloring ideas
Color the snowflake in icy blues and purples, or make every branch a different color. For a pattern challenge, repeat the same colors on all six branches so the flake stays balanced. Big open shapes like these are great for little hands using chunky crayons or dot markers. Cut the finished snowflake out and tape it to a window for a wintry display.
A little learning
Counting the six branches and noticing that each branch looks the same is a gentle first look at symmetry.
