Before Morning by Joyce Sidman

Sometimes I think this website should be called Illustration Inspired Play because more often than not, that is how I chose picture books. If you are the same, then I hope you know this book.  Illustrator Krommes uses wood engraving to print on Japanese paper and result is as beautiful as the words of the invocation poem that make up this story. The words and art work blend perfectly together to explain the sweet wishes of a child. All the young girl wants is a snow day and a little bit of extra family time. It is simple and beautiful. It makes me feel that same longing I felt as a child for life to just be cancelled and to spend a day out playing together.

Scroll down for:
​⚈​ 1 Play ideas  ⚈​ 2 Classroom Activities  ⚈​ 3 Links to more Resources
​Get your hands on this book here:
Scratch paper art - Age 4+

The illustrations in this book will inspire art projects from even the least confident artist. Although Krommes' technique won't be easy to emulate, a little scratch art is a good place to start.  You can buy ready made packs at the door store and just scratch away or you can make your own! 

For a look similar to the book, start by covering a thick sheet of paper with crayon (we used white) - the thicker layer of wax the better! Next step is to cover the paper in a mixture of black paint and dish soap. Then let it dry and scratch away! I used the image from the back cover of the book to do a practise run. It was so much fun! The kids just enjoyed scratching away all the paint and didn't really make any sort of picture. The finished product is never the point with kids though, right? It's all about the fun of doing.

Read about when we originally shared it on Instagram  HERE
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Sewing 'snowballs' - Age 2+

If you live somewhere that doesn't have much snow (or any at all) then why not try making some snowy window decorations? Threading cotton balls is a great activity for little hands but depending on the cotton ball thickness, this can be tricky. Be sure to use an embroidery needle because they are thicker, larger and less sharp. Once little hands get tired, you can always glue the cotton to the string to finish the project. Then simply tape the string to the window for a lovely, fluffy look! 

Read about when we originally shared it on Instagram HERE
Montessori counting - Age 2+

There are a few ideas from Montessori that are always fun and easy to adapt, even if you don't do 'full Montessori'. To follow the snowflake theme of this book, look out for a bag of foam flakes at a craft store or dollar store and try this counting activity. For each number, kids count out the amount using the flakes so they can see each number represented physically in front of them. We created a whole winter resource pack that these are included in, which is available to buy HERE. 
Coffee Filter Snowflakes - Age 3+

This book is filled with so many beautiful snowflakes, why not make some of our own? Try something a bit different and use coffee filter paper and some water colour paints. Younger ones can help with the painting and decorating and older kids can help cut the snowflake shapes out. They make beautiful window art. 

Read about when we originally shared it on Instagram HERE
  • Set up an airport or pilot/air plane role play area 
  • Try writing a 'wish poem' using the structure from the book
  • Create a class wish that you work towards earning or fund raise to make happen
  • Research statistics related to plane cancellations
  • Learn about how planes prepare to fly in winter weather
A full weeks' lesson plan pack with printable resources and slideshow presentation can be found on TPT - HERE. 
Click below for other books and activities about the winter time: