As the cooler season sets in, many parents find it tempting to keep the kids indoors, especially when the drop in temperature makes outdoor play less appealing. But even on chilly days, spending time outside offers huge benefits such as breathing in fresh air and soaking up natural sunlight to keeping little bodies moving and muscles active. Staying active in winter is just as important as it is in summer. A great way to make it more appealing is using durable outdoor equipment, like Vuly’s trampolines or monkey bars, which are built to withstand harsher weather while keeping the fun going all year round.
Why is it important to play outdoors during winter?
Playing outdoors,even in winter, is great for a child’s physical health. Experts recommend that children engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day to get their hearts pumping.
This helps them stay active and reduces the risk of seasonal weight gain. On the other hand, staying cooped up indoors can lead to boredom, fatigue, and increased stress.
Encouraging outdoor play not only supports physical health but also boosts mental wellbeing, as it can lift moods by increasing serotonin levels. Lower stress hormones can improve the body’s natural immunity, while high stress levels can suppress immune function and make it harder to fight off illnesses.
Benefits of breathing fresh air and exposure to natural light
Natural light plays a vital role in regulating the body’s production of melatonin — the hormone that helps control sleep. Regulating sleep patterns, encouraging active play are all very important for a child’s well-being.
Spending time outdoors also gives kids a sense of freedom, which can boost their happiness. Since winter often limits a child’s exposure to sunlight, getting outside is especially important as it supports vitamin D production, helping to promote healthy growth and strengthen immunity.
Build resilience and adaptability
Playing in different weather conditions helps children step out of their comfort zones and adapt to challenges. This can boost their self-esteem and confidence while building problem-solving skills, such as navigating a frosty trampoline mat or finding safe play areas when the grass is damp.
It also encourages creativity, as kids come up with new games and activities that work well in colder weather with their friends or family members.
Safe and Fun Winter Play Ideas
Here are a few fun ideas to help encourage outdoor play during winter:
- Trampoline games: Light bouncing to warm up, dodgeball on a trampoline, or “snowball” (using soft play balls).
- Outdoor obstacle courses: Use backyard equipment and natural elements like logs and rocks.
- Nature hunts: Collect pinecones, spot winter birds, or find frosty leaves.
- Mini sports matches: Low-intensity soccer or basketball to keep warm.
Safety Tips for Cold-Weather Play
- Dress kids in layers; breathable base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer
- Use gloves and hats to protect extremities
- Check equipment surfaces for frost or ice before use
- Limit outdoor sessions in extreme cold and encourage regular warm-up breaks indoors.
Making Outdoor Play a Family Habit Year-Round
- Set a consistent “outdoor play time” each day. Even 20–30 minutes makes a difference.
- Parents joining in increases kids’ motivation and creates family bonding time.
- Keep play varied: rotate between different games, sports, and backyard equipment.
Reinforce that winter shouldn’t be a season for hibernation. Outdoor play is essential for children’s health, happiness, and development. With the right preparation and safe, durable play equipment, families can embrace the colder months together.
