Winter is one of four seasons, which officially starts in the month of December and ends in February. The weather during winter can vary, depending on which region or hemisphere of the world you live in. If you are curious to know more about winter, here are some fun winter facts for kids.
1. The Earth is closest to the sun in winter. Strange though it may seem, the axis of the earth’s rotation is tilted away from the sun during the winter season. Hence, the northern hemisphere sees less sunlight during these months.
2. Snow is not just one color. Believe it or not, snow is not just pure white. It has colors ranging from blue, pink and even green, because of the reflection of sunlight.
3. Winter is the season for snowflakes – these ice crystals are unique in shape and appear in the form of six-sided figures. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the title for the world’s largest snowflake ever recorded belongs to Montana in January 1887, which measured a massive 15 inches wide and 8 inches thick.
4. Winter contributes to energy conservation. With the dropping temperatures during winter, people switch on their heaters to keep warm, and it is no secret that this energy consumption is high. However, during winter, our body burns more calories while exercising outdoors or shoveling snow, which is energy that helps to offset high energy consumption.
5. Winter brings about some delectable fruits, such as citrus fruits – some of the cherished winter varieties include grapefruit, oranges, lemons, and limes. These fruits contain high levels of vitamin C and help ward off winter combat the winter flu virus.
6. Winter also brings about the important festival of Christmas. This festival is a time to celebrate, be with friends and family, sing carols, and exchange gifts.
7. Winter marks the time for fun activities like ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding. These activities bring much enjoyment and excitement to people of all ages.
8. Finally, winter also marks the beginning of the Japanese Snow Festival, which happens annually in Sapporo, located in Japan’s Hokkaido island. This 2-week festival features amazing ice sculptures, snow slides, slides, and other winter-themed activities.
