Building a snowman has always been a quintessential part of winter for me, but as a dad, it’s taken on a whole new meaning. December, with its crisp air and snow-covered landscapes, brings back so many childhood memories, but it’s also about creating new ones with my kids. Here's why this simple, timeless activity has become one of my personal December highlights:
It may be a simple activity, but as a dad, there’s something magical about rolling snowballs, adding a hat and scarf, and creating a family of snowmen together. It’s these little moments that make the winter season so special for me.
1. Reliving My Own Childhood
- As soon as the first snow falls, I’m instantly transported back to my own childhood.
- I remember bundling up in oversized jackets, my hands barely functional in bulky mittens, and rushing outside to build the tallest snowman possible with my siblings.
- Now, watching my kids experience that same excitement fills me with a sense of nostalgia and joy. It’s like I’m experiencing it all over again, but this time from a completely different perspective.
2. A Break from the Chaos of Daily Life
- December can be a whirlwind. Between holiday shopping, work deadlines, and endless to-do lists, life gets hectic.
- Building a snowman forces me to slow down and live in the moment.
- It’s a simple act that reminds me to focus on what really matters—spending time with my family.
- Out there in the snow, there are no emails, no buzzing phones, just laughter and creativity.
3. Watching My Kids’ Creativity Shine
- Every snowman we build becomes a unique creation, a product of my kids’ imaginations.
- One year, we made a “superhero” snowman with a cape made out of an old towel and a mask from construction paper.
- Another time, my youngest insisted that the snowman needed a “snow dog” companion, so we built an entire snow family.
- Seeing their excitement and how their little minds work reminds me just how creative kids can be with the simplest materials.
4. Teaching Teamwork Without Even Trying
- Building a snowman isn’t a one-person job—at least not in our family.
- My kids learn how to work together, whether it’s rolling the snowballs, deciding where the arms should go, or debating the “perfect position” for the carrot nose.
- Sure, there are disagreements (let’s just say snowman design choices can get heated), but it’s all part of the process.
- It’s a fun way to teach them the importance of collaboration without it feeling like a lesson.
5. It’s the Ultimate Outdoor Activity
- As a dad, I’m always trying to get my kids off their screens and into the fresh air.
- Building a snowman is the perfect excuse to spend hours outside, no matter how cold it is.
- Plus, rolling giant snowballs and lifting them on top of each other is no small effort—it’s basically an outdoor gym session!
- My kids get to burn off energy, and I get to feel like I’m doing something good for all of us health-wise.
6. It’s a Tradition That Doesn’t Cost a Thing
- So much about the holidays revolves around spending money—gifts, decorations, trips, you name it.
- Building a snowman, though? Completely free.
- All you need is snow, a carrot, some sticks, and random stuff from around the house for accessories.
- It’s a reminder that some of the best memories aren’t tied to expensive outings or elaborate plans.
7. The Hilarious Mishaps
- Let me tell you, building a snowman isn’t always smooth sailing, and that’s part of the fun.
- Last year, our snowman tipped over three times before we finally got it to stand. The kids thought it was the funniest thing ever.
- Another time, the dog decided the carrot nose was a snack, and we had to dig through the snow to find a replacement.
- These little hiccups always end up being the moments we laugh about the most.
8. It Brings the Whole Neighborhood Together
- Something about a snowman in the yard seems to draw people in.
- Neighbors stop to compliment it, and kids from down the street sometimes join in the fun.
- One year, we even had an impromptu snowman-building contest with another family.
- It’s a simple way to connect with the community and spread a little extra joy during the holiday season.
9. Seeing the Finished Product
- There’s something so satisfying about standing back and admiring the snowman once it’s done.
- It might not be perfect—one arm might be lower than the other, and the hat might be a little crooked—but it’s ours.
- The kids beam with pride, and I can’t help but feel proud, too, knowing we created something together.
10. It’s a Reminder to Stay Playful
- As adults, it’s easy to get caught up in responsibilities and forget how to let loose.
- Building a snowman reminds me how important it is to stay playful, even as a grown-up.
- When I’m out there rolling snowballs and making goofy faces for the snowman, I feel like a kid again—carefree, joyful, and present.
11. It’s About More Than Just a Snowman
- Sure, building a snowman is fun, but it’s about so much more than that.
- It’s about taking time to bond with my kids during a season that can sometimes feel overwhelming.
- It’s about creating moments they’ll look back on when they’re older, the same way I do with my own childhood memories.
- It’s about showing them that the simplest things can bring the most joy.
Building a snowman might seem like just another winter activity, but for me, it’s so much more than that. It’s a chance to connect with my kids, relive my own childhood, and embrace the magic of the season. So, when the snow starts falling, you’ll find us out there, bundled up and building something unforgettable.
