We spend a lot of time outdoors. I aim for one hour of fresh air play every day, and I rarely say no when Jack asks for more! Outdoor play is so important for development, and it helps that it really wears them out for nap time!
When I share snaps of our outdoor playtime on Instagram stories, I always get DMs about it! Sometimes they’re asking about what I do when it rains or is cold, and sometimes it’s about a specific toy or clothing item pictured. If you’re looking to add some outdoor play to your repertoire, these might be some good ides to add to your gift list!
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Cold-weather outdoor play essentials
Gear for kids:
When the temperatures start to drop, it doesn’t mean that you have to resort to long days inside! Just be sure to dress for the weather. A good parka is essential for general cold weather, we have this one and Jack loves it! We also have a Patagonia down jacket and fleece for colder and warmer days. Grace has a fleece sweater and sherpa bunting (so sweet, right?!) for when she accompanies us outside!
When the snow flies, you’ll need a snowsuit. These are the best– everyone we’ve turned onto them have repurchased year after year! A good pair of boots and snow mittens will keep little hands and feet warm and dry. I don’t mind investing in quality pieces that can be handed down. Jack also has a Packers knit hat, but your mileage (and team!) may vary LOL!
When it’s really cold, layering is key! Warm base layers or lined jeans (40% off with code ALLYOURS) help keep little bodies from getting cold. Layer some bitty-sized wool socks under those snow boots and add a fleece hat and mittens for when it’s cold but dry.
For Mom:
I am not a warm person, by nature. My mother is always cold. My mother’s mother was always cold. It’s a thing. So when I was finally earning adult paychecks, I Googled “what is the warmest winter parka known to man” and I bought it. I have not regretted purchasing it once. Not even when the credit card bill came. That’s how warm it is! Preamble aside, I love my Canada Goose parka. And now, when Jack is outside living his best winter life, I am also not hating my own LOL! I got these gloves as a stocking stuffer last year and I love them! It’s hard to find gloves I deem warm enough, but these do and they have the softest sherpa lining. I also just got these fleece-lined leggings and they have changed the game! They even have pockets!
To play in the snow, I add some ski pants, wool socks, and my snow boots. I’ve had these boots since high school and, like my parka, they are essential to my enjoyment of the season. I’ve had these mittens just as long, and I’ve even sent them back to be repaired instead of replacing them after a few years!
Rainy day outdoor play necessities
Gear for kids:
Okay, it’s obvious, but your kid needs a raincoat. We have this one because it’s basically a tiny version of the adult jacket. Jack also has the coordinating rain pants because, hello! toddler. I always grab these rain boots when they are offered on Zulily; you can’t beat the price and they do the job. We have them in at least three sizes now!
For Mom:
I have the adult version of Jack’s raincoat and a big umbrella. I also have regular rain boots and these shearling-lined boots for when it’s extra gross or cold out.
Accessories for outdoor play
Gear for kids:
I always encourage open-ended play, especially with the wide-open outdoors to explore! Jack loves to draw with chalk or chase after bubbles. I love just handing him a basket and seeing what he collects! This nature explorer set is on his Christmas list and a good magnifying glass will help him get a good look at things! I like to have his water bottle with us, and a hearty snack if we’re away from home.
For mom:
Other than sunglasses, I always take a drink outside with me to supervise play. If you’re a hot coffee drinker, you NEED one of these! It’s a heated mug that keeps your drink at your specified temperature, just like an Ember mug. Unlike Ember, the coaster will also charge your phone wirelessly AND it’s less than $40! If I just have water, it’s usually in an enormous, insulated straw cup. That’s just how I roll!
Sometimes I need to carry more than just my phone, and for that, I like to add a belt bag! Great for when you just HAVE to hold a rock collection LOL.
Once our deck chairs are put away for the season, I usually use a regular folding camp chair, but I recently discovered this HEATED version and when I say I ran to the checkout!! I also keep a healthy stash of hand- and toe-warmers around and use them liberally and indiscriminately LOL!
How do you incorporate outdoor play in your family? What are some of your outdoor play must-haves?
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Noelle says
This is a helpful list, and I love the for Mom section.
Caroline says
Thank you, Noelle!
Karla R Petersen says
I’m with you… outside as much as possible. We live in rainy Seattle, so I know that gear is important. CUTE kids! 🙂
Caroline says
It’s the best! We love Seattle, it’s so beautiful there! Thank you, Karla!
Tiffany Gunther says
I can’t wait to play in the snow with my toddler! It’s been warm this year in Colorado and we finally just got our first snow today! Thanks for the great tips for keeping the kids warm!
Caroline says
That’s incredible! We love the mountains of Colorado, I bet you have some great outdoor play!
ess says
Loved all these!! I got ideas of some stuff to buy for us.
Caroline says
Thank you!