As temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, families may be tempted to spend more time indoors. However, colder weather doesn’t mean outdoor play has to stop. Spending time outside helps children stay active, explore nature and develop important physical and social skills.
Nov. 7 is National Play Outside Day, making it a great opportunity to encourage kids to enjoy outdoor adventures. With a little preparation, parents can keep outdoor play fun, comfortable and safe throughout the colder months.
1. Use appropriate layers
Keeping children dressed appropriately is one of the easiest ways to make outdoor play comfortable during colder months. Rather than relying on one heavy coat, dress kids in layers that can be added or removed as needed.
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, followed by an insulating layer like fleece or wool and finish with a weather-resistant outer layer to protect against wind, rain, or snow. Don’t forget warm socks, insulated boots, gloves and ear-covering hats. Keep extra clothing nearby in case kids get wet while playing.
2. Seasonal activities help
Children are more likely to enjoy spending time outside when they have fun activities to look forward to. Take advantage of the changing seasons with outdoor games and adventures that encourage exploration. During the fall, families can organize nature scavenger hunts, collect colorful leaves, jump in leaf piles or search for interesting rocks and pinecones.
As winter approaches, activities can include building snowmen, making snow angels, sledding and creating snow forts when conditions allow.
Parents can also encourage seasonal crafts using items collected outdoors. Introducing new activities helps keep outdoor play exciting and makes it easier to turn into a regular routine.
3. Create inviting play area
Having an accessible and engaging outdoor play area makes it easier for families to encourage children to spend time outside. A backyard playground gives kids a convenient place to burn energy, use their imaginations, and enjoy fresh air without traveling to a park. Consider adding equipment such as swing sets, slides, climbing walls, and playhouses to keep children entertained while developing balance, coordination, and strength.
Parents can also consider adding rubber mulch for playgroundsbeneath equipment to provide a cushioned surface that helps absorb impact from falls. Unlike some traditional playground surfaces like wood mulch, rubber mulch is durable and can provide year-round coverage when properly installed and maintained.
As temperatures drop, keep play areas clean and well-maintained by removing fallen branches, clearing slippery leaves, and checking equipment for weather-related damage. Make sure surfaces are free of ice, standing water, and other hazards before children play.
4. How about games to keep kiddos moving?
Physical activity is especially important during colder months when children may be more inclined to spend time watching television or playing video games indoors. Organizing outdoor games can make getting outside feel more like an adventure than an obligation. Classic activities like tag, hide-and-seek, relay races and obstacle courses encourage movement while keeping kids entertained.
Parents can also create backyard challenges involving jumping, running, balancing and climbing using playground equipment and other age-appropriate items. Joining in on the fun can further motivate children to participate while giving families opportunities to bond and stay active together.
5. Keep outdoor play flexible
Children don’t need to spend hours outside to enjoy the benefits of outdoor play during colder months. Shorter, consistent sessions can help kids adjust to cooler temperatures. Start with 15- or 20-minute activities and gradually increase outdoor time as children become more comfortable. Families can also schedule several outdoor breaks throughout the day instead of one long play session.
Pay attention to temperature, wind chill, precipitation and your child’s comfort level. If children become uncomfortable or too cold, head indoors for a break. Keeping outdoor play flexible helps ensure it remains enjoyable.
6. Make outdoor play a priority
While outdoor play offers many benefits, changing weather conditions require a few extra safety precautions. Check the local forecast before heading outside, and avoid activities during extreme cold, severe weather or hazardous conditions.
Inspect playground equipment and surrounding surfaces for ice, snow, moisture and other hazards that could cause slips or falls. Supervise outdoor activities, and ensure equipment is appropriate for children’s ages and abilities.
With shorter daylight hours, encourage kids to wear bright or reflective clothing when playing near driveways, sidewalks, or streets. Adequate backyard lighting can also improve visibility. Remind children to take indoor breaks and change out of wet clothing promptly.
Colder temps need not put an end to outside play
Colder temperatures don’t have to put an end to outdoor adventures. With appropriate clothing, engaging seasonal activities, an inviting backyard play space and a few basic safety precautions, families can continue enjoying the many benefits of outdoor play throughout the fall and winter.
This Nov. 7, celebrate National Play Outside Day by encouraging children to step away from screens, explore their surroundings and discover just how much fun playing outside can be, no matter the season.
