5 Reasons why kids need to play outside in winter

It may be freezing cold and blowing a gale, but there are so many good reasons why kids need to play outside during winter.

Dress them up warm and let them play in the dirt, the frost and the rain. They’ll have lots of fun outside in the fresh air.

Playing outside in winter is just like playing outside any other season, but colder. Yet as parents we often limit the time our kids spend outside at this time of year.

Our friends at Mud Mates tell us about some of the benefits of why we should be sending our kids to play outside during the colder months.

5 Reasons why kids need to play outside in winter

 

1. It’s a learning experience

Kids learn and build up a lot of their knowledge through play, and playing outside in different seasons offers them new experiences.

Winter provides kids with the opportunity to jump in the frost or lots of muddy puddles, hold ice in their hands and throw snow balls.

It’s a chance for them to see their environment differently, to be creative, problem-solve and play in different ways compared to other months of the year.
 

2. New muscles are used

During winter kids will use different muscles to the ones they use in summer or during other seasons.

Their larger muscles are put to greater use and an increase in physical activity supports their gross motor development and overall health.

For instance, walking on an icy path requires kids to use their balance and leg muscles more.

Running in snow is harder than running on grass, meaning their body is more active doing so.
 

3. It’s good for kids immune systems

A warm or stuffy room makes a great breeding ground for viruses and bacteria.

It’s more likely for your kids to pick up colds and feel unwell when they’re in close proximity to other people.

However, when kids are outside there’s a lot more space to run around, they’re getting fresh air and they’re less likely to be in such close contact with others.
 

4. It boosts kids vitamin D levels

While we all know the sun can harm us if we get too much of it, if we don’t get any, we can get sick too.

Vitamin D helps us to feel happy and regulates our mental and emotional moods.

SAD or seasonal affective disorder happens when kids aren't getting enough Vitamin D, leaving them feeling depressed, tired and run down.

Just 30 minutes play outside each day can help prevent this.
 

5. Preventing cabin fever

Playing outside helps to stop cabin fever setting in!

We all know what happens when kids are cooped up inside for too long. They go stir crazy and take us along for the ride!

Stop this happening by bundling them up and heading outside regardless of the weather!
 

More kids activity articles to enjoy

• Make your own erupting snow
• Tapioca pearls sensory play activity
• Tie dye art

Source: This article was written by Mud Mates - Taking care of messy kids with protective over-garments, perfect for dirty, messy play, indoors and out.
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