Getting Outside in the Cold Months

Getting outside in the cold winter months can seem easier said than done. Here’s some thoughts and some gear so you can enjoy the outdoors all year long!

Gear

Set yourself up for success by dressing for the weather and bringing along what you need.

Merino base layer - Meriwool makes all sizes, including kids leggings and tops. Merino wool is moisture wicking, soft on the skin, and keeps heat in. For those with a wool allergy, go for a polyester set. Try to stay away from cotton; it holds moisture in and may end up making you feel colder rather than warmer after a good amount of playing and sweating!

Wool socks - keep those toes warm with a pair of soft, warm, moisture wicking socks

Boots - choose a pair that are easy for your kids to take on and off themselves while still providing waterproof protection and warmth

Scarf - we love these fleece neck gaiters as they don’t have the risk of choking or falling off like a traditional scarf does. Meriwool also offers a merino wool neck gaiter.

Hat - if you live in an area with cold temperatures you probably have a hat! We also really like this version that has a head lamp for any after dark adventures or walks. Whatever you choose, it’s a good idea to make sure it covers the ears.

Fleece pullover - this is a great layering option for the really cold days. We also love it to wear in the car seat since it is thin enough to stay safe while still providing extra warmth.

Heavyweight jacket - choosing the “best” jacket for your kids can sometimes feel like an overwhelming decision. With endless options, it can be difficult to choose. We recommend reading reviews, choosing based on your comfort level with the warmth it will provide, and always remember not to wear jackets in the car seat.

Snowsuit - like a jacket for your pants! A snowsuit helps keep your lower body dry and warm while you roll up snowmen and discover icicles.

Balaclava - this is for the serious adventurer and the seriously cold days! If you know you’ll be out in the bitter cold and wind, it’s an excellent investment to prevent chapped, sore cheeks.

Water bottle - remember to keep water on hand. The cold weather can sometimes repress our thirst response, but it’s still important to hydrate.

Activities

Make a bug hotel - gives the bugs a place to overwinter, and watch them arrive in the spring and summer.

Scavenger Hunt Potions - create little “potions” and “spells” with outdoor elements

Scavenger Hunt Journal - Journal features 32 pages with fun prompts and outdoor activities to gather natural materials

Go Find It! and now Go Find It Too! is an incredibly popular take along scavenger hunt game and promotes sensory exploration

Take some time to google or search pinterest and view the amazing wealth of winter nature crafts, activities, and ideas. Or take a look through one of the books below!

Books

1,000 Hours Outside has recently published a new book - Activities to Match Screen Time with Green Time - with outdoor activities for every season.

Exploring Nature Activity Book for Kids: 50 Creative Projects to Spark Curiosity in the Outdoors by Kim Andrews. A delightful activity book that, rather than focusing on seasons, offers invitations in theme with what nature can teach us. Craft and create the seasons, weather, day/night, water, soil, stone, wild creatures, and living things.

The Organic Artist for Kids - in this book, young children’s art educator Nick Neddo guides young artists through creating their own eco-friendly art supplies with the supplies found in nature. 38 projects that you probably have never seen before and will spark wonder and creativity.

There's No Such Thing as Bad Weather - a cult classic by Scandinavian mom Linda Åkeson McGurk. There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather is a fascinating personal narrative that illustrates how Scandinavian culture could hold the key to raising healthy, resilient, and confident children in America.

Camping with Kids Cookbook - fun recipes and activities for making meals while camping together

The Family Camp Cookbook - also look to this cookbook for lunches and meals to take on the go for day hikes or long outdoor adventures