cozy, hands-on fun
Best Hot Cocoa-Themed Activities for Preschool and Kindergarten
winter stem activities
January classrooms need activities that do more than “fill time.”
They need something that feels warm, engaging, and purposeful… without adding lesson plan creation to an already full plate.
That’s where hot cocoa–themed activities shine.
They give you the magic of winter learning, but with built-in opportunities for STEM, science, fine motor skills, and creativity. And yes, they feel just as cozy as they sound.
Below are three hot cocoa-themed classroom favorites that work beautifully together or on their own.
Hot Cocoa Science Experiment
Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Science
There’s something about a science experiment in January that instantly pulls students in.
The weather is cold, winter feels endless, and indoor recess sneaks in more often than anyone planned.
By the time you’re back inside, those little minds are ready for something that truly grabs their attention.
This Hot Cocoa Science Experiment invites preschool, Pre-K, and kindergarten students to slow down, observe, and think like little scientists.
Students are guided to add marshmallows to cups of hot cocoa at different temperatures, then watch what happens.
Along the way, they practice making predictions, observing changes, and exploring simple cause-and-effect relationships in a way that feels exciting but totally manageable.
It’s the kind of hands-on science activity that works especially well in January, when students are craving something new and engaging.
This experiment fits beautifully into:
Whole-group science lessons
Small groups
Winter-themed science days
Early practice with the scientific method
And the best part? It’s developmentally appropriate, highly visual, and designed specifically for young learners who are just beginning to see themselves as scientists.
Hot Cocoa STEM Task Cards
Hands-on Winter Math Fun
If your winter centers are starting to feel a little stale (without the energy to start over), these Hot Cocoa STEM Task Cards are an easy refresh.
Students step into the role of little engineers as they build and design using simple materials, test their ideas, and solve problems along the way.
As they work, they’re also strengthening spatial awareness and fine motor skills without even realizing it.
These task cards fit naturally into:
STEM centers
Morning tubs
Small groups
Independent play trays
They’re hands-on, flexible, and designed to keep students engaged longer than most winter center activities. And in January, that’s a pretty big win.
Hot Cocoa Writing Craft
Winter-themed Math Craft Activity
Sometimes January calls for something quieter.
This Hot Cocoa Craftivity gives students a chance to slow down, create, and build fine motor strength while still staying on theme.
This craft pairs beautifully with:
Winter writing prompts
Bulletin boards
Early literacy extensions
Cozy classroom displays
It’s simple enough for younger learners, but still polished enough to feel special. No complicated steps. No overwhelming prep. Just a meaningful winter craft that fits naturally into your day.
Why Hot Cocoa Activities Work So Well in January
Hot cocoa–themed learning hits the sweet spot for winter classrooms:
Seasonal without being holiday-specific
Cozy without being passive
Hands-on without being chaotic
You’re giving students opportunities to explore, build, create, and think… all while leaning into a theme that feels comforting during long winter days.
Want Them All-Plus More?
Grab the Hot Cocoa Unit Bundle
All three activities (plus a handful of others) are all included in the Hot Cocoa Unit Bundle, making it easy to plan:
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Science
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STEM
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Literacy Centers
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Math Centers
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Fine motor & craft time
…with one cohesive winter theme.
If you’re looking for hot cocoa-themed activities that feel purposeful, engaging, and easy to implement, this bundle checks all the boxes.
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