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Let’s build a BIG snowman!

Yay! The first puffy snow is perfect. Here is a simple, step-by-step plan just for you, age 7. Ask an adult to help when you need to lift or move heavy snowballs.

What you need

  • Warm clothes, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots
  • A carrot for a nose, stones or buttons for eyes and buttons, sticks for arms, and a scarf and hat for decoration
  • An adult nearby for lifting and safety

Before you start

Make sure the snow is packable. Packable snow is a little wet and clumps when you squeeze it. If the snow is too fluffy, wait until it warms a bit or use a spot where people have walked.

Step-by-step to make a big snowman

  1. Pick a flat spot: Find a place away from roads and not under a tree that might drop wet snow on your snowman.
  2. Make a small snowball: Start by making a fist-sized snowball. Pack it tight with your hands.
  3. Roll the snowball: Put the small ball on the ground and roll it forward. It will pick up more snow and grow bigger. Roll in a straight line and turn the ball now and then so it gets round. Keep rolling until it is the size you want for the base. For a big snowman, roll far and often.
  4. Flatten the top: When your base ball is big enough, stop and pat the top flat a little so the next ball will sit on it without wobbling.
  5. Make the middle ball: Start another small ball and roll it the same way, but make it a bit smaller than the base. When it is ready, ask an adult to help lift it onto the base. If it is not too heavy, you can tip it and roll it up a little ramp of packed snow to get it on top.
  6. Make the head: Make a third, smaller ball for the head. Smooth it and put it on top of the middle. Pack some extra snow between the layers like glue so they stick together.
  7. Decorate: Use a carrot for the nose, stones or buttons for eyes and mouth, sticks for arms, and put on a hat and scarf. You can add buttons down the front or a colorful scarf.

Safety tips

  • Always ask an adult to help lift heavy snowballs.
  • Build away from streets and driveways.
  • Wear warm waterproof clothes and take breaks inside to warm up.
  • Don’t eat the snow.

Fun extras

  • Make a snow family with small snowpeople beside the big one.
  • Use food coloring in a spray bottle to add color to your snowman.
  • Give your snowman a theme, like a pirate or astronaut, with props from home.

Have fun and take a picture to remember your big snowy friend!


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