MV Elementary Kindergarten teacher Elizabeth Van Dunk, like all teachers, is showing students that learning remotely includes creative lessons which are both educational and fun.

In this instance, Mrs. Van Dunk combined weekly letter recognition work with a STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Math) project.

The letter “Ss” was used in tandem with the words “snow” and “science” in a lesson showing them how to make their own faux snow.

First, students watched an episode of “Mystery Science,” which explained why snow is white.   (Snow is made of many small particles of ice. Each particle of ice reflects, refracts, and transmits light of all colors, and in all different directions making it impossible to see an image through it. Light of all colors is white; therefore, snow appears white.)

Students made their own faux snow by using baking soda and white conditioner or baking soda and shaving cream, all items which can be purchased at any local $1 store.

“As scientists, they had to determine the right consistency so that they can try to make their own snowperson,” she said. “This is a great for sensory, too, and can be placed in a plastic baggy for another day.”

Until real snow is on the ground, here’s some simple, at-home “snow recipes”:

Baking soda and conditioner:
Use white conditioner so the faux snow looks the real. Start with one-half cup of conditioner, and use a fork to stir in about three cups of baking soda. This snow packs very well and is great for making snowmen.

Baking soda and shaving cream:
Mix together one pound of baking soda, and slowly add shaving cream until the perfect snowy consistency is achieved.  Knead the fake snow with  hands until it’s all combined.

To give faux snow extra flair:
Consider adding glitter or even essential oils. You can also put the faux snow in the freezer to make it cold to the touch, just like real snow.

“If they like slime, they will love their own snow–and this is certainly not as messy as slime,” added Mrs. Van Dunk.