As my kids get older, it seems harder to get them outside.

It’s even more difficult in winter, or in inclement weather.

I’m not into cold weather. I don’t like winter. I don’t like being cold. I am a terrible role model. I am trying.

It doesn’t help that most of their peers seem stuck indoors all the time or involved in organized sports and parent-led activities.

My kids like exploring our backyard and woods and the ponds near our house. But sometimes, they want something a little more, and they long to be with other kids.

I see some kids outside in the warmer months, but mostly young kids who attend school together. There aren’t many tweens or teens outside playing like when I was young. When winter rolls around, kids snug up indoors and only seem to venture out at the first snow for a bit of playing.

We have a pretty nice sledding hill in our town that we love to visit when school is in so we have it to ourselves.

When I find any outdoor camps or field trips for older kids and teens, I jump on it to give them the opportunity. No matter the driving time or cost (almost).

When playing or hiking outdoors in winter, it’s important to be prepared for cold temperatures, rain, or snow.

It’s important to wear layers to trap in heat and insulate against wind and cold temperatures.

There’s (almost) no bad weather, only bad clothing.

Base Layer

Thermals are great as a base layer.

We want a lightweight base layer that isn’t too bulky. Natural fibers are best, like cotton, wool, bamboo, or silk.

A long sleeve tee shirt or turtleneck and leggings are often fine under snow suits.

I really like turtlenecks, mock necks, or cowls to keep the neck warm without adding another layer.

I found these absolutely amazing fleece leggings at Walmart.

These Fruit of the Loom sets are fun and affordable.

Cuddl Duds are a good option and readily available online and in stores.

Waterproof Pants

I ordered my son some Columbia snow pants to match his coat.

Snow overalls are a wonderful item for all ages. No worries about anything coming untucked.

I bought these Arctix Fleece Lined Cargo Snow Pants for my kids and they’re perfect.

Their old snow pants became too tight. Is it weird that I’m getting handmedowns from my kids?

Coats

We love Columbia coats for outdoors. They have layers and options and grow with my kids. My middle kids and I also got London Fog coats that are working really well.

Socks

Good warm socks are a must-have to keep feet warm and dry. We like thermal socks or wool boot socks.

Boots

Waterproof and insulated snow boots or hiking boots can get expensive, but it’s necessary to protect feet against the elements.

I bought myself and my middle kids Columbia waterproof hiking boots and good insulated snow boots for my growing son.

Accessories

Waterproof gloves are great, but bulky. My kids prefer texting gloves even if they’re not waterproof. They like to take pictures or look up items on nature apps.

Even with hooded coats, we need hats to keep our heads and ears warm.

Winter Hiking Gear

Snowshoes or grips are great for extra snow safety.

Walking sticks or poles are great support year-round.

It’s fun to come back inside where it’s warm for tea or hot cocoa!

Winter weather here in Ohio seems to change rather suddenly lately. It was really warm until January, then we got blasted with snow and it’s been very cold. I do look forward to spring.

What’s your favorite outdoor winter activity?

You might also like:

• Snow Unit Study
• Winter Unit Study
• Winter Bird Study
• Winter Nature Walk
• Going Outside in Winter
• Measuring Snow
• Frozen Bubbles

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