Out into the fresh winter air to play in the snow

Children spend every free minute outdoors in the summer. But even in winter, little ones belong outside. Cold and snow are no reason to hide indoors. Often, all it takes is a little motivation and encouragement from parents to get the kids outside. Even in cold temperatures, there are many ways to have fun outdoors and experience unforgettable adventures. Whether it’s a snowball fight with friends or a snowshoe hike through snowy landscapes with the whole family, outdoor games awaken the spirit of adventure and promote children’s development.

Outdoor games in the snow and fresh winter air promote development

For children, nature is like a huge adventure playground. Playing in the snow allows little ones to gain important experiences that boost self-confidence and help them assess their own abilities and limits. Running wild in snow-covered meadows and forests engages all the senses. Here, they run, climb, jump into the snow, and exert themselves. The constantly changing activities and use of different body parts enhance sensory perception, and new nerve cells in the brain connect with each other. This also increases mental performance. Playing in the snow with other children promotes social skills and team spirit. Through these outdoor games, they learn to solve tricky situations and problems independently and to deal with conflicts.

Cold winter air is good for health

Outdoor games in nature are not only a lot of fun but also strengthen the immune system. Especially in young children, the immune system is still developing. One of the main causes of colds in winter is warm, stale air in enclosed spaces. The cold winter breeze improves resistance against infections and pathogens. That’s why you should take your children outside into the fresh winter air as often as possible and encourage outdoor games in the snow! Just one hour a day can often work wonders. Warmly dressed and properly equipped, extensive play in the snow and nature stimulates blood circulation and metabolism. It is important to ensure that children are not dressed too warmly during outdoor games. They should be warm and dry but not sweat too much while running around. Otherwise, the body cools down too quickly afterward. Especially during growth phases, sunlight increases the production of vitamin D. This “sun vitamin” helps the body absorb calcium and supports bone formation. Playing in the snow allows children to freely satisfy their urge to move. Outdoor games also train muscles and prevent posture problems caused by sitting indoors and in front of the TV for long periods.

Small adventures create big memories

Not only in the playroom but also during outdoor games in the snow, there is plenty to experience. The classic family activity in winter is building a snowman. For those who prefer something more exciting, a scavenger hunt through deep snow is a great option. Searching for tracks during a winter hike is an adventurous way to explore the surroundings. As a special highlight at the end, a picnic in the snow awaits the whole family. Warm children’s punch combined with small treats makes the day an unforgettable experience. These little moments stay in memory for a long time and shape childhood. After a few hours in the fresh winter air, there is nothing better than coming inside to warmth and making yourself comfortable in your own space. The 2-in-1 combination of children’s chair and children’s lounger from howa is perfect for a relaxing break after an eventful day. The lovingly designed star appliqués on both models in soft blue and pink invite you to dream. Image rights: ©Thinkstock / Oksana_Schmidt