Winter has arrived with a blast of arctic weather. Unfortunately, this means indoor recess when temperatures dip below 15 degrees. I worry when children do not have the opportunity to get some fresh air and sunshine. More often now children are relegated to the indoors because of schedules, extreme weather and safety issues. In Richard Louv’s book, Last Child in the Woods, http://richardlouv.com/books/ , he explores the importance of nature for emotional regulation. Consider spending some time outside this winter, even with the arctic air. Silver Lake Nature Center is a beautiful and family friendly resource for short hikes and explorations of nature.
As for school, recess is on if we are at 15 degrees. Layered clothing, socks, hats and mittens are passports to the outside. Children thrive on a brisk blue sky day! On the unfortunate days when recess is indoors, we encourage children to engage their imaginations, play quiet games with friends, read, draw and create. Hopefully, children are learning to appreciate the exhilaration of the cold and the warmth of an indoor day.