Colder weather is upon us, but that doesn’t mean outdoor play for young children should be shelved until spring.

The Heart Network’s Creating Healthy Schools & Communities (CHSC) program, which is funded by a grant from the New York State Department of Health, works throughout Franklin County to increase access to healthy food and opportunities for physical activity. This work includes an early childhood component through a partnership with the Child Care Coordinating Council of the North Country (CCCCNC), the goal of which is to engage with childcare providers to adopt policies, practices, and environment changes that promote nutrition and physical activity for young children.

In past years, CCCNC and The Heart Network have highlighted the ways parents and caregivers can take advantage of indoor activities to keep young children moving in the cold seasons. However, it’s equally important to note the health benefits of outdoor activity, especially in winter. Outdoor play can help children boost immunity, increase exposure to vitamin D and it helps get them engaged in a wider variety of physical activities.

It’s worth noting, too, that cold temperatures aren’t necessarily the cause of winter-time viruses, a belief that sometimes leads to parents keeping kids inside. According to the Centers for Disease Control, winter colds are caused by viruses, not icy weather, so getting your kids outside may actually help them avoid getting sick. That’s not to say that cold temperatures don’t come with risks. Dressing kids appropriately is important — layers, hats, mittens, boots, and snow pants are all necessary, especially when the temperature falls below 32 degrees.

When it comes to outdoor play itself, the Child Care Council, The Heart Network and our partners encourage families to keep it simple. If you can ski or snowshoe, that’s great, but those activities can be expensive for families with limited means. Take your kids out and build a snowman, go sledding or walk around local parks that keep trails clear.

Don’t let winter deter your family from getting outside and being active. For tips and resources, we encourage folks to visit ccccnc.org to learn more. To learn more about The Heart Network’s CHSC program, email Arriana Patraw at apatraw@heartnetwork.org.

Sara Allen Taylor is Infant-Toddler Project Director at the Child Care Coordinating Council of the North Country.