THE IMPORTANCE OF OUTDOOR PLAY IN WINTER
Playing outdoors in winter presents its own unique opportunities for learning and discovery, which are essential for a child’s development.
The winter months are fast approaching, but it’s important that children still spend time outside, despite the dreary weather.
Read on to discover the benefits of outdoor play in winter, and you won’t have to feel guilty about sending your class out into the cold.
Benefits of Winter Playtime
1) Prevents illness
Children that are regularly exposed to dirt, germs and bugs in nature are less likely to develop allergies and autoimmune diseases.
In fact, illnesses are more easily passed around indoors, where bacteria in the air is recycled in confined spaces that don’t get enough ventilation.
Therefore, the more time spent in fresh air, the less likely children will suffer from illness.
2) Provides exercise
It’s recommended that children have sixty minutes of exercise per day, and those that spend time outside in colder temperatures get more exercise as their bodies are forced to work harder to keep them warm.
They also use more muscles which encourages the development of gross motor skills and promotes physical growth.
Exercising regularly has the added benefits of better sleep and maintaining a healthy body weight.
3) Promotes problem solving skills
Cold temperatures and wet weather provide children with challenges to overcome, both physically and cognitively.
The simplest of lessons comes as they learn to navigate slippery surfaces and avoid unsafe objects.
Other problem-solving activities include learning how to build a fort using mud, sticks and leaves, or learning at what temperature water freezes.
4) Provides Vitamin D
Even winter weathers provide ample opportunity to absorb Vitamin D from the sun, which is essential for health and can’t be easily supplemented.
Vitamin D regulates moods and provides higher energy levels and improved memory.
Children need to spend just ten to fifteen minutes outside in the sun to get their daily dose of Vitamin D.
How to Stay Safe Outdoors in Winter
Although daily outdoor play is highly recommended for children of all ages, it’s important to take precautions to ensure their safety. Best practice includes:
- Dressing children in multiple layers, ensuring that their head, necks and hands are covered, and that they’re wearing appropriate footwear
- Assessing the surroundings for icy or slippery patches and other obstacles that could cause accidents
- Setting time limits dependent on the temperature. For very cold temperatures, children should come inside around every 10 minutes or so to warm up
- Taking action immediately if you notice the warning signs for a cold-related illness
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