Guidelines for Winter Outdoor Play
Hi, I'm Megann Sauer and I'm a pediatrician at Boys Town Pediatrics.
A common question that we're frequently asked in the winter time, in clinic, is when is it too cold for my child to go outside and play?
One of the things to remember is that windy days can feel much colder than the actual temperature outside.
The wind chill factor is the most important thing to remember.
Here's an easy way to break it down.
When it is 30 degrees and higher outside, this is the green zone. It's ok for your kids to comfortably play outside.
Just remember to layer their clothes and make sure they're wearing hats and mittens.
Try to offer water frequently as that helps regulate body temperature.
Watch for any signs that your child is getting chilled, such as shivering. If you do see this, bring them inside immediately, even if they insist they're fine.
Feel babies' hands and if possible their feet regularly to see if they're turning icy.
Remember, it's always a good idea to come inside for a quick break every 40 minutes or so, just to warm up a bit.
When the temperature is 20 to 30 degrees outside, this is the yellow zone.
Be cautious. It's okay for your kids to be outside, just follow the same rules that you do in the green zone.
However, remember that it's easier for children to become chilled sooner.
It's especially crucial to layer your kid's clothing outside. They may become sweaty from playing outside but they need to make sure that they're wearing more than a thin shirt if they do take off their coat.
The red zone is when the wind chill temperatures drop below 20 degrees.
The rule here is to stay indoors.
The risk to your child's skin becomes too great when the temperatures drop below 20.
Stay indoors and have fun with indoor activities.
Winter fun is approaching. Just remember the green, yellow and red zones before you head outside to insure that everyone stays safe.
FAQs
In general, when the wind-chill is 32 degrees and above, it's safe to be outside. In temperatures 13 degrees to 31 degrees, indoor breaks should happen every 20-30 minutes. For wind-chills of 13 degrees and below, you should move activities indoors and outside of the cold as frostbite can set in very quickly.
What temperature is too cold for children to play outside? ›
In general, when the wind-chill is 32 degrees and above, it's safe to be outside. In temperatures 13 degrees to 31 degrees, indoor breaks should happen every 20-30 minutes. For wind-chills of 13 degrees and below, you should move activities indoors and outside of the cold as frostbite can set in very quickly.
What is the unsafe outdoor temperature for children in winter? ›
Children can quickly grow out of clothes and accessories. You can visit second-hand stores to shop for these items. These accessories keep fingers and toes from getting frostbitten, especially when playing in wet snow. The CDC recommends not to let your children play outside in temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
What temperature is too high to play outside? ›
Usually, playing and exercising outside boosts a child's physical and mental health in many ways. However, a heat index at or above 90°F, as identified by the National Weather Service, poses a significant health risk. High temperatures and extreme heat can cause children to become sick very quickly in several ways.
What temperature is too cold to play? ›
In general, when the wind-chill is 32 degrees and above, it's safe to be outside. In temperatures 13 degrees to 31 degrees, indoor breaks should happen every 20-30 minutes. For wind-chills of 13 degrees and below, you should move activities indoors and outside of the cold as frostbite can set in very quickly.
How long can a toddler play outside in winter? ›
Whether your toddler has cabin fever or you've just got errands to run, don't stress too much over the cold. Just make sure that your little one is properly dressed and not exposed to the cold for longer than 30 minutes at a time.
How cold is too cold for outdoor activities? ›
The risk of frostbite significantly increases when the air temperature is below 5 F. You also should avoid exercising in the rain, as getting wet increases your vulnerability to cold. On days with extreme weather conditions, limit your workout. Or take a break or exercise inside.
What temperature can kids play in snow? ›
Ideal Temperatures
As a good general rule most children can tolerate winter temperatures of 30 degrees Fahrenheit and higher provided there is not a significant wind. Kids do need to be dressed in warm, appropriate clothing.
What are the outdoor play temperature guidelines for American Academy of Pediatrics? ›
The good news is, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), there is no specific temperature that's too hot for a baby or child to go outdoors. What is important is to be safe by limiting the amount of time your kids spend outside during the hottest hours and have the right protection to safely enjoy the summer.
What temperature is dangerously cold outside? ›
When Is Cold Too Cold? Experts agree that it's best to stay indoors if the temperature falls below zero degrees Fahrenheit or the windchill dips below -18. If you must go outside, you should do your best to limit any skin exposure to no more than 30 minutes.
However, as per the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations, it is generally safe to take a newborn outside when temperatures are between -15°F and 90°F (-26°C to 32°C) to avoid potential complications.
What temperature is unhealthy outside? ›
What is the heat index?
| Classification | Heat Index |
|---|
| Caution | 80°F - 90°F |
| Extreme Caution | 90°F - 103°F |
| Danger | 103°F - 124°F |
| Extreme Danger | 125°F or higher |
Heat index of 90°F-103°F: A person can experience heat stroke, heat cramps, or heat exhaustion and “extreme caution” is recommended. Heat index of 103°F/105°F-124°F (depending on location): On “danger” days, a person is likely to experience heat cramps or heat exhaustion, and heat stroke becomes possible.
How cold is too cold for kids to play outside? ›
The red zone is when the wind chill temperatures drop below 20 degrees. The rule here is to stay indoors. The risk to your child's skin becomes too great when the temperatures drop below 20. Stay indoors and have fun with indoor activities.
Is 45 too cold to play outside? ›
Hands, nose, toes, and ears are particularly susceptible due to how far away they are from the core of your body (and most of your body heat). This is why it is recommended to stay indoors if the wind chill drops below freezing. In general, when the wind chill is 32° and above, it's safe to be outside.
Can you play baseball in 30 degree weather? ›
30 degrees Fahrenheit and below: be aware of the potential for cold injury and notify appropriate personnel of the potential. 25 degrees Fahrenheit and below: provide additional protective clothing; cover as much exposed skin as practical; provide opportunities and facilities for re-warming.
Can a child with a cold play outside? ›
Children can continue their normal activities if they feel well enough to do so. If they have fever or complications, they may need a few days of rest at home. Your child can keep going to school if he feels well enough to take part in the activities. In winter, children with colds can still play outside.
What temperature is unsafe outside cold? ›
In general, when the wind chill is 32° and above, it's safe to be outside. In temperatures 13° to 31°, you should take indoor breaks every 20-30 minutes. For wind chills of 13° and below, move activities indoors as frostbite can quickly set in.
What temperature can students not go outside? ›
The recommended temperature for students to play outside is 31 degrees to 91 degrees. If the temperature is lower than 31 degrees or hotter than 91 degrees other factors should be taken into consideration.
What body temperature is too cold for a child? ›
Signs of hypothermia in an infant include cold skin, bright red skin, inactivity/lack of energy and body temperature under 95 F (35 C).
