No Such Thing as Bad Weather: Embrace the Outdoors Year-Round

Winter winds, rainy days, and frosty mornings don’t have to keep us cooped up indoors. With the right mindset, clothing, and preparation, every day can be an adventure—no matter the weather. Here’s how to gear up, stay safe, and make the most of outdoor activities, even when the elements seem less inviting.

Cold Weather = More Fun Outdoors (Not More Illness!)

Let’s tackle a common myth: cold weather doesn’t make you sick! Research shows that viruses spread more easily indoors due to poor ventilation and close proximity, not because of chilly temperatures. In fact, a 2022 systematic review found that outdoor virus transmission rates are significantly lower than indoor rates. The fresh air disperses viral particles, making the outdoors a safer space for both fun and health.

So next time someone hesitates to head outside, remind them that brisk air doesn’t breed colds—stuffy rooms do!

Of course, there is a little something to any myth- if your body is too cold to keep warm, it uses all it's energy to heath up and not to fight off whatever illness came along. Therefor- my favourite danish weather saying comes in handy here again and again: There's no such thing as bad weather! Just bad clothing!

Gear Up for Success: Dressing Right for Winter Adventures

The key to enjoying cold or rainy days is dressing in the right gear! This includes layers!

Follow the layering system for maximum comfort and protection:

Base Layer: Merino wool or synthetic fabrics to wick moisture and keep you dry. Get those flattering long thermal underwear sets out! They are popular on wintersport-vacations for a good reason!
Mid Layer: Fleece or insulated jackets for warmth.
Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof shells to guard against rain and wind.

Other Must-Haves:

Insulated boots, wool socks, and waterproof gloves.
A snug hat and a neck gaiter to prevent heat loss.
Re-consider cotton—it holds moisture and can lead to a chill.

Let's quickly talk gloves for kids too while we are at it. Because there is nobody more frustrated, than a child wanting to play and explore... while wearing large waterproof mittens! It's a balance between warm and being able to use all 10 fingers to play.

My recommendation is to search for insulated garden gloves/carpenter gloves. And if they do not have these small enough in your area, then try out woollen finger gloves UNDER a pair of kids carpenter gloves. It's warm, it's dry (ish) and they have excellent grip for playing outdoors. You can get knitted finger gloves in bulk and garden/carpenter gloves are cheap too- so pack a few extra pairs just in case they do get wet.

I created this video years back to show how I layer up for a full day outside in winter:

When Kids Aren’t Dressed Warm Enough

What if a child shows up at daycare or school without adequate clothing? No problem!

Here are a few activities to help warm them up:

Jumping Jack Relays: Quick bursts of jumping jacks or running on the spot increase heart rates and circulation.
Nature Hunt Races: Encourage kids to collect leaves, rocks, or twigs, keeping them moving and distracted from the cold.
Group Huddles: Games like "Follow the Leader" with exaggerated arm swings or stomping can mimic warm-up exercises.
Bonfire: Is there anything more cozy than snuggling together with some blankets around the fire to heat up?

If you can, have spare warm layers (hats, gloves, and scarves) available for emergencies to ensure every child stays safe and comfortable. Some forest kindergartens make their own 'hot boxes' where fingers or toes can be re-heated! Picture a nice easy sized box with a lid, towels, soft blankets and a hot water bottle inside. Perfect for placing little fingers in and re-heating them!

What to Pack for Cold-Weather Adventures

Planning an outing with children or family? A well-packed backpack can make all the difference:

Extra Layers: Spare hats, gloves, socks, and lightweight fleece sweaters.
Snacks: High-energy foods like nuts, granola bars, and dried fruit to maintain warmth and energy.
Warm Drinks: A thermos of hot chocolate or soup to warm up from the inside.
First Aid Kit: Always include basics like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications.
Waterproof Seat Pad: For sitting on damp logs or cold rocks during breaks.
Hand Warmers or little Hot Box: These can be lifesavers when temperatures drop- read more about what a hot box is above!

Embracing the Outdoors, Rain or Shine

With the right preparation, winter outings can be magical. Frosty mornings and rainy days offer opportunities for unique adventures, from ice-crunching underfoot to the soothing rhythm of rain on waterproof gear. So, bundle up, grab your backpack, and get INTO the OUT—whatever the weather.