Melting Snowman Sensory Play: A Festive STEM Adventure for Kids

In this BLOG post I will teach you how to make a melted snowman and the benefits of STEM play.

Looking for a winter activity that’s equal parts fun, festive, and educational?

Our melting snowman experiment is a hands-on way to bring science, creativity, and sensory play together.

It's fun, its festive and it is 10/10 for strengthening fine motor skills! As kids squeeze and pinch, they are working their fingers and hands and getting them ready to do big tasks such as writing!

It's sensory play, it's Science, its problem solving, patience, focus and SO MUCH MORE!!

Why do kids love this one? Great question!

• Sensory Play Benefits: The cool, squishy texture of the baking soda paste engages touch, while the fizzing reaction excites sight and sound.

• STEM Learning: Children explore cause and effect, chemical reactions, and scientific observation in a playful way.

• Fine Motor Skills: Rolling, shaping, and decorating the snowman strengthens little hands and fingers.

• Festive Fun: A seasonal twist makes this activity perfect for holiday playdates, classroom projects, or cozy afternoons at home.

Want the links to the snowman parts? They are linked HERE!

Materials:

• Baking soda

• Water

• White vinegar

• Small cup or bowl

• Pipette or medicine dropper

• Sensory tray or bowl

• Optional: buttons, beads, or twigs for decoration

Step 1: Mix baking soda and water together until you form a thick paste. The amount you use will depend on how big/how many snowmen you want. I used one whole box of baking soda. Slowly pour the water in until you can form a ball. You won't need a lot!

Step 2: Shape the paste into a snowman—stacking little balls or molding with your hands.

Step 3: Add fun details like buttons, beads, or twigs to bring your snowman to life.

Step 4: Pour white vinegar over your snowman and watch as the magic happens!

APFL Tips:

• Place your snowman on a tray or in a sensory bin to contain the fizz.

• Encourage kids to make predictions: What will happen when we add vinegar?

• Try adding food coloring to the vinegar for colorful fizzing snowmen.

• Want it extra cold? Pop it in the freezer for 15-30 minutes!

Want a free printable activity card? Click HERE!

The melting snowman activity is more than just a holiday craft, it’s a playful introduction to science and a joyful way to celebrate the season. With simple ingredients and endless giggles, this experiment is sure to become a winter favorite.

You get to decide what is safe and manageable in your home. Always monitor young children.