With all this cold weather it can be really hard to get up off the couch, put on ALL our clothes (well it feels like it) and head out in to the cold!

Here are four reasons that you should!

1) Outdoor Play in the Cold Strengthens the Immune System

Playing outdoors in the fresh, chilly, open air can boost kids’ immune systems, developing their ability to fight off infections and build resistance to allergies.

2) Outdoor Play in the Winter Months Helps to Burn Extra Energy

When playing outdoors, kids can keep fit and continue developing their physical skills. Outdoor play reduces the risk of obesity by getting blood flowing to the organs, at the same time as keeping them fit and healthy.

3) Outdoor Play in Different Conditions Promotes Problem-Solving and Cognitive Thinking

Children are encouraged to assess risks such as slippery surfaces caused by the rain and frost; they can then adapt their play to ensure safety. It also helps children to acquire new problem-solving skills and promotes cognitive thinking.

4) Outdoor Play in the Winter Boosts Vitamin D levels and Uplifts Mood

During the winter, we have a small window of opportunity to be exposed to sunlight and increase our vitamin D levels.

As a society, we must revise our way of seeing winter as a time for children to spend less time outdoors.

By trying to protect them from colder weather, we are doing the opposite and hindering learning.

This information is and extract from …https://www.pentagonplay.co.uk/news-and-info/4-reasons-children-play-outside-cold-weather

It is not just great for the children, the health beenfits for adults are huge too!

https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/health-family/let-s-go-outside-the-why-how-and-where-of-getting-outdoors-whatever-the-weather-1.4348687

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/family/2020/11/dont-let-the-pandemic-keep-kids-inside-cold-coronavirus/

Why going outdoors in winter is good for mind, body and soul