Going Outside Everyday in Winter with Young Kids

It's winter in New Hampshire, and as I write, it's less than 10° F outside. It's late January and we're looking at another two months (at least!) of snow and ice before real thawing begins. How do I stay energized and upbeat over these long winters with two toddlers? I wrote about some ways here, and one of the best ways to thrive during winter is to spend time outside every day.

Why go outside with kids in the winter?

But it's cold! And it takes so long to bundle up the toddlers! So why go through all the trouble?

Health Benefits

The sunshine and fresh air are good for you! We weren't meant to sit in stale air out of the sun for days on end. We need the vitamin D.

Mood Benefits

Sunshine and fresh air improve your mood and mental health. Even on cold days when I haven't felt very motivated or patient, I can feel myself relax and cheer up within minutes of getting outdoors. The same goes for children. Getting outdoors can keep them from becoming restless and irritable. I've also noticed that mine take better naps after coming in from a nice outside time.

Pride in doing something hard

It is an ordeal to get little children bundled up in winter. It's a whole activity all on its own. But as moms we need to remember: We can do hard things! When you all come inside rosy-cheeked and out of breath ffrom playing in the snow, you'll feel a sense of accomplishment for your day.

My Tips for Getting Outdoors with Kids in Winter

Going outside with young infants: Use a wrap carrier and baby-friendly jacket

The easiest way to keep a small baby warm outside is with your own body. After securing your smaller baby in a wrap, enclose him or her in big button-down sweater and then a winter maternity coat. Maternity coats or zip-in panels can be found on second-hand sites like Mercari for $30-50, (use my affiliate code PCVHVA when you sign up for $10 credit) or ask around your local playgroup, Moms facebook group, or church to see if any mom between babies has one you can borrow.

Great prices on second-had baby wraps at Mercari.com

Be aware that footie onesies or snowsuits can be uncomfortable and constricting for babies in carriers. With their legs bent, fabric bunches around the knees and doesn't give their feet enough space. With baby in your coat, he or she won't need their own snow suit, just roomy, warm clothing. Always err toward sizing up with footie pajamas.

Going outside with bigger babies and small toddlers: Get a small sled to pull the child

Once babies can sit up, or if they're not big enough to walk in deep snow, get yourself a sled to pull them on. It should have a back for them to lean on and sides and/or a buckle so they don't fall off. And, of course, a rope for pulling. Searching baby or toddler sled on Facebook marketplace shows me a handful of options for $10-15, or check Walmart or a hardware store for $30-50 new sleds.

Keep in mind that kids on a sled aren't moving as much as you, so using an extra blanket and checking in to make sure they're comfortable may be necessary.

Warm winter clothing for babies and toddlers

You don't need to spend an arm and a leg on high-tech brand name winter gear that your baby will outgrow this season.

Check off-season sales for wool clothing

As spring rolls around this year, search online for wool onesies, tops and pants for your kids. I was able to score deeply discounted wool items for my kids in multiple sizes from H&M. Wool is breathable and light weight, yet extraordinarily warm. It does't need to be washed frequently either.

Thrifting, of course

Two kids in and I still haven't had to buy a new winter coat, snow pants, or snow boots for them.

Your local Facebook Buy Nothing group

If you haven't already joined your local buy nothing group, do yourself a favor and get in there today! Odds are pretty good that another mom in your town has kids a size up from yours, who just outgrew their snow gear.

Take the pressure off tracking outside hours

Personally, I don't track my outside time (no 1000 Hours Outside for my family, at least not in this stage of life.) That's because no two days are exactly the same, and whether you stay outside for an hour or for 20 minutes, you will receive significant benefits above zero time outside. Plus, building up a high expectation can become a barrier to action. If you are able to tell yourself "this will be no big deal!" you're more likely to follow through.

Prioritize the best weather

Like I said, no two days are the same. Some winter days will be super sunny or slightly warm. And because the sun sets early, midday through early afternoon is the prime time for warmth and light. So, try to maximize outside time during these days and times, leaving indoor tasks like crafts, reading, or cleaning for less optimal times.

Enjoy a reward

Enjoy a hot cup of tea and snack with the kids after coming inside. Something to look forward to always helps tackle a challenge.

Give yourself a useful task

Finally, give yourself something purposeful to do outside! I'll be honest; looking at my footprints, making snow angels, and throwing snow balls doesn't keep me engaged for quite as long as it did when I was a kid. I feel more satisfied by my time outside when I get something done. This is always when I take out trash and compost and feed and water our ducks. It's also a great time to clean out the car, widen and clean up our shoveled areas, get the mail, or bring in any toys or tools abandoned in the yard.

Conclusion

Even on messy, cold, colorless winter days, going outside with kids is worth it. You'll be surprised by how much you can enjoy this time playing in the snow, watching your kids experience the season, and appreciating the sparkling beauty of winter. Without breaking the bank, you can get the right gear and clothing you need enjoy the outdoors with kids, even in the winter. Stay warm, and have fun!