Dressing for Success

With winter upon us, and the ever-changing Colorado weather, we felt it would be helpful to talk about a couple of weather-guides for our families to hopefully answer some of the frequently asked questions we receive during this time of year. To reassure you, our weather guidelines have remained the same, and are similar to other Colorado ECE programs. Because there are so many factors that affect how it feels outside, we do a daily weather check in the mornings – including wind chill, humidity, and a handful of other factors, to determine if children are safe to be outdoors. What’s great about living in Colorado, is that there are very few exceptions in terms of “unsafe” weather conditions, and we encourage our children and teachers to go outside as much as possible. Please keep in mind that the guidelines vary slightly for Nido/Toddler and Primary/Elementary. 

Please click here to review the MMA Weather Policy.

On colder weather days (and all days), our guides are very in tune with each child’s temperament and always:

• ensure that children have proper gear (as long as it has been provided by parents)
• model preparedness by coming prepared
• engage with children through play to stay warm
• remind children to drink water and stay hydrated
• monitor children throughout time outside
• are encouraged to use their discretion if they believe it is too cold
• have a positive attitude!

MMA’s Tips for Staying Prepared:

• check the weather every morning and prepare for the coldest and warmest parts of the day (layers!)
• have more than one of everything (ex: hat, gloves, snowsuit) and leave one set at school if possible
• ensure that any extra clothes are the right size and weather appropriate (& please label everything!)
• pack extra socks in case they get wet
• have a spot at home where cold weather gear lives – prepare with your child the night before
• outerwear should be waterproof, especially boots and mittens

How to Dress for the Weather

Outdoor play is a great way to support healthy growth and development. Opening the doors to outdoor play in all kinds of weather provides children and adults with opportunities to spark their curiosity, leading to wonder, exploration, and learning. When children have the right clothing for the season, it contributes to them having positive, rich outdoor play experiences that simply cannot be mimicked indoors.

Get outside, be curious, let children lead, and have fun!