When the temperatures start to drop, it can be tempting to stay inside where it’s warm and cozy. But there is no need for the kids to miss out on their regular playtime just because winter has arrived in Michigan. From building snow forts to ice skating on a local pond, winter brings fun activities for children of all ages to enjoy—as long as they’re bundled up.
At Kids Gotta Play, our outdoor play equipment is perfect for use throughout the year, even with several inches of snow on the ground. With this in mind, we have put together some tips to help you enjoy playtime outside with your kids, even in the winter.
How to Stay Warm and Enjoy Playtime in Winter
Playtime and health go hand in hand, so heading outside for some active fun is essential for your child’s physical health and well-being. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children six years and over need at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily—active play is the best choice for younger kids, especially with all that built-up energy. Whether you send them outside to make snow angels or climb on the play structure, it’s important to ensure your children stay warm and healthy while enjoying the colder air.
Fuel Your Body
Fueling your body with the right food for winter is crucial when enjoying active fun outdoors. Foods containing healthy fats, carbohydrates, and protein will encourage your body to produce heat. Your body will naturally raise your body temperature as it metabolizes the food, helping you stay warm. Some foods to include in your next winter meal break include:
- Brown rice
- Oatmeal
- Chicken breast
- Avocado
- Almonds
For a better understanding of healthy foods for your children, check out this article from Healthy Eater.
Stay Hydrated
Keeping kids hydrated is crucial to maintaining a healthy mind and body. Drinking water will help kids regulate their body temperature better in cold weather. Children ages 1-3 years need approximately 4 cups of beverages per day, including water or milk. As your child ages, this amount increases; 4-8 year-olds need 5 cups, and 8+ should be drinking 7-8 cups of water per day.
Take a look at this hydration article created by pediatricians from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Layer Up
Layering up clothes is vital to keep warm in winter, and it is better to wear several thin layers than one thick set of clothing. Starting with a base layer and adding extra layers before finishing with an insulated coat, plus a hat and gloves, will help keep the warmth in. The great thing about layers is that you can easily remove one layer or add more to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Bring a Blanket
Sitting down on the cold ground or a freezing bench while the kids play will only make you feel the cold even more. It is a wise idea to bring along a blanket to combat the cooler temperatures. Your blanket will provide you and the kids with something warm and comfortable to sit on when snack time comes around.
Additionally, it’s always a wise choice to keep hand warmers in your bag when heading outside in the winter to play. These small and effective devices are perfect for stuffing into boots or inside gloves for that added bit of comfort and warmth.
Embrace the Weather
While you cannot change the winter weather, you can change how you think about it. Being prepared for the weather by fueling your body correctly and wearing the right clothes will make playtime enjoyable throughout winter and beyond. Don’t forget to ensure that kids take breaks from the cold and head inside to warm up regularly.
Make Playtime Fun, Whatever the Weather
Are you ready to embrace the cold and head outside with the kids to play? The right play equipment makes playtime fun, whatever the season. At Kids Gotta Play, we have all the play equipment you need for outdoor fun. With help from basketball hoops, trampolines, and the best play systems, the kids won’t want to come back inside this winter.
Contact us today to explore the possibilities your backyard has to offer.
