Getting kids outside in the winter

Getting kids outside in the winter isn’t always (or ever) easy.  The cold, the snow, the lost mitten, all the layers, and the pull of the cozy warmth of the indoors can all prevent us from going outside.

But, getting outside in spite of these challenges is important for several reasons. First, it can help children stay active and healthy. And, of course, it helps kids get enough Vitamin D, which we know helps with your immune system. Spending time outdoors can also help kids reduce stress and anxiety. It can also help mamas too, for all the same reasons. It’s not always easy, but it is definitely worth it.

As a lover of the outdoors in every season, I am hoping to help inspire you today to get outside during the cold winter months. I’m here to share some of our favorite activities (and tips and tricks) that help get our family outside in the winter, in the hope that they help you, too!

Mindset shift

Depending on your location, there will be certain seasons that are more conducive to getting outside than others. Winter is probably not too many parents’ favorite season for outdoor play. Winter can be hard. It brings its own set of challenges, but it also brings special magical outdoor activities you can’t do any other time of year. Kids need outdoor time year-round, and so do you! We’d hate for you to miss out on months of adventures just because this is a hard season. 

But, as moms, we can do hard things! And getting outside may just take a bit of a mindset shift so that you can embrace (and maybe even enjoy!) the season. Instead of looking at winter as a season of inconvenience and uncooperative weather, it’s time to shift our perspectives. Infusing gratitude into this season can make a huge difference in our attitude and feelings about going outside, transforming our perspective from dread and reluctance to excitement and appreciation. 

Winter also provides opportunities for unique and memorable experiences that can only be found in the chill of the season. If you’re lucky enough to live in a place that gets snow, there are all kinds of new possibilities for creative play, imagination, and construction.

Simple and practical tips for getting kids outside in the winter

Keep it simple

Make it easy on yourself, and keep the outing simple. I get wanting to make every outing as epic as possible, but it can burn you out. It’s good to have the big adventures, but the small can also be memorable and check all the needed boxes. Sometimes, just getting out and taking a walk around the neighborhood or heading to your local playground/park can be enough to really help your mood and attitude. If a big outing feels overwhelming, keep it simple and close to home. Short and sweet is the way to go. Set reasonable limits on the amount of time spent playing outside to prevent hypothermia and frostbite, and, of course, just keep it fun. It’ll still be worth it. 

Plan ahead

Plan ahead with your clothing, gear, and layers. Gather all of your hats, mittens, boots, and other necessary clothing before you start to dress your kids. You want to make sure it’s as quick and painless as possible for everyone! Put it all by the door and have it ready for everyone when they’re ready to go out. Not having to stop and look for a missing boot or glove for 20 minutes will help get you outside quicker and cut down on stress.

Make it fun

Make the process of gearing up for the cold a fun family affair. Involve your kids in picking out winter gear, from colorful snowsuits to cozy hats and gloves. When they have a say in their attire, they’ll be more eager to venture outside. If the process of getting dressed and gearing up makes you want to scream, you’re not alone. Find a way to make it fun or turn it into a game. Turn on fun music and have a getting-ready-dance party, or make it a race to see who can get dressed the fastest. 

Change things up

Sometimes, the winter can feel like it lasts FOREVER. In that case, I start getting antsy and tired of visiting the same places again and again. I like to take winter mini vacations and change the scenery. These can be big and small adventures. Sometimes, getting out of town or into a new environment gets my kids more excited for outdoor adventures. 

Be a winter role model

Kids often take cues from their parents. If they see you embracing and enjoying the winter season, they’re more likely to follow suit. Demonstrate a positive attitude towards the colder weather and make outdoor time a family priority. Get out there with them and try to enjoy the season! Observe and point out things that are unique about your location during the winter months. Show them you enjoy being outside and they’ll enjoy it, too! 

Don’t forget the snacks

Add special treats to keep it exciting! Anything you do with kids is better with snacks. In the winter, I often pack a thermos with hot chocolate or the kids’ favorite warm soup. Or, if we are planning to make a fire in the snow, then I bring fixings to make good ole s’mores. Having something warm and delicious to break things up always adds to the overall mood. 

How to dress for outdoor winter activities

Warm kids are happy kids who are likely to stay outside longer. If you want to spend time outside during the winter in comfort, you may need to invest in quality winter boots, insulated gloves, and thermal layers. When kids (and moms!) are comfortable, they’re more likely to enjoy the outdoor experience.

Before heading out, check the weather forecast and keep an eye on changing conditions throughout the day. Layers are the best because you can modify them depending on the activity level and find the just right body temperature.

Start with a base layer of moisture-wicking fabric, then add a layer of fleece or wool, and finally, a weatherproof outer layer. Try to steer clear of cotton. Don’t forget to cover your kiddo’s head, neck, hands, and feet. Warm hats, gloves, and boots are essential!

If you need help finding the perfect winter gear, check out the following articles by fellow RWMC mamas:

• Best Kids’ Winter Boots
• Best Winter Gloves for Kids
• Merino Wool for Kids

Fun outdoor winter activities for kids

There are so many ways to get outside with kids in the winter! We have a great, super comprehensive post with 100+ Outdoor Winter Activities for Kids, but honestly, the list could go on and on beyond that!

Of course, my family has our favorite outdoor winter activities and traditions that we love to do every year. Here’s a list of our family’s favorites. These are the activities that we keep going back to for more!

Sledding

Sledding is a classic and a quintessential outdoor winter activity for kids of all ages! All you need is a sled and a hill with snow on it.  This one is probably the most obvious because, let’s face it, what kid doesn’t LOVE sledding? Hours of downhill fun and lots of walking the sled back up to get in all that needed exercise. It’s a win-win for a great night’s sleep and a heavy dose of fresh air. Check out your state’s recreational website for sno-park locations and pass information. Here is an additional article about visiting Sno-Parks. 

Sledding safety tips

However, as with every fun activity, especially when children are involved, it’s important to be safe as well as have fun. Here are some sledding safety tips for your little ones.

• Young kids (5 and under) should sled with an adult and wear a helmet when sledding.
• Everyone should sit face-forward on their sleds with their feet downhill. Never godown the hill face-first because this can lead to a serious head injury.
• Go down the hill one at a time and with only one person per sled (except for adults with young kids).
• Keep arms and legs within the sled at all times.
• If you’re on a sled that won’t stop, roll off it.
• Walk up the side of the hill and leave the middle open for other sledders.
• Don’t ever pull a sled with a moving vehicle (like a snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle).

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is an amazing way to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the winter months. This is probably my favorite activity because it is really just winter hiking. It’s a great way to get out into the woods and walk through a winter wonderland.

It’s a relatively easy sport to pick up, even for kids, and requires no prior experience or training. Everyone who is able and willing to snowshoe can and should, no matter their age! It is a great way to get the kids outside and hike through pristine powder snow.

Basically, snowshoeing is a type of hiking that involves walking over or on top of the snow with the assistance of footwear that displaces your weight over a larger area (so you don’t sink). No snowshoes? Don’t worry! If the trail is popular enough, you might not even need the snow shoes. But, wearing them is sometimes half the fun for kids,  so check to see if you can rent some at your local outdoor sports shop or even check them out at your local library or nature center. 

For more information on getting started snowshoeing with kids, be sure to check out our full post on Beginner Snowshoeing Tips for Kids. 

Ice skating

Ice skating is a fun and fabulous activity for kids that offers SO many benefits. Skating helps kids develop better balance, coordination, and flexibility, strengthens muscles, and improves their endurance. Skating can also be a social activity that allows kids to make new friends. Finally, ice skating is just so awesome and fun! The feeling of sailing across the ice is delightful and can provide hours of entertainment for kids.

Our family loves skating so much that we make a vacation around it to help us with getting outside during the winter. We have found an incredible free outdoor skating rink in Stanley, Idaho, that is surrounded by the Sawtooth Mountains. We rent a cabin nearby and skate till our hearts are content. Another awesome trip would be to ice skate through the forest outside of Quebec City. I’ve heard it’s a magical experience!

Building a snow fort

My kids LOVE building snow forts! Building a snow fort has to be up there at the very top of awesome winter outdoor activities. Last year, my kids built an amazing snow fort that they played in for hours and hours over the course of a few weeks (until it melted). They were so incredibly proud of their fort and had so much fun building it! Always be extra careful not to make it too heavy on top and make sure kids have proper adult supervision.

If you want to take it up a notch, throw in a fire and some hot chocolate, and you have a memory that lasts a lifetime. Seriously, a snow fort with kids is a fun and creative activity that can provide hours of entertainment. All you really need is a shovel and some creativity. It’s a great way to get a workout, enjoy the outdoors, and teach kids about physics. Snow forts are fun snow construction projects!

Book a getaway cabin

Does winter give you cabin fever? I’m talking about the kind of cabin fever that makes you want to rent a cabin in the woods and get immersed in nature!

Renting a cabin in the woods in the winter with your kids can be a great way to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. Cabins in the woods offer a unique opportunity to get away from the daily hum-drum and experience nature up close. You can explore the surrounding forests, go on hikes, and spot wildlife. There is something invigorating about being in a new environment. 

Visit the beach

Beaches in the wintertime are magical places. While the cooler temperature makes the water a bit too cold for swimming, there are still many activities the whole family can enjoy doing at the beach during the cooler winter months. Take advantage of the lack of crowds and spend some time shelling. For the best shelling, arrive at the beach at the earliest low tide, when the water recedes, uncovering thousands of shells. Shells are especially abundant after winter storms stir up the ocean water.

Bring along some binoculars to spot all sorts of birds and marine life, from crabs and live sand dollars to dolphins. Look for a place where the sand is dotted with rocks and branches so that the water gets trapped when the tide is low, and you will find many critters in these small tidepools. 

A place like the PNW coast in the winter is a definite playground. We hit the Oregon Coast a few years ago in November, and it was incredible. It rained the entire week, but it didn’t stop us. My kids chased the tides, made sand angels, and looked for anemones and starfish. If you dress right, the weather just adds to the fun. Misty and foggy beaches are like another world!

Visit your favorite park in the snow

Playgrounds can be a ton of fun in the snow. If it’s snowy and/or muddy outside and you’re not in the mood to track through the muck and get filthy, consider a playground. Most local parks have some sort of outdoor playground equipment that can be enjoyed no matter what the season or weather. You’ll likely have it all to yourselves, which makes it the perfect place to play games. There is usually enough space to spread out, things to climb on and the possibility to meet new friends. 

My kids love playing Follow the Leader on playgrounds. They take turns being the leader and lead each other through a maze of playground equipment, doing silly and challenging things. For example, they love walking across the swings without touching the ground, climbing up the slides, and leaping from thing to thing. Check out our post for even more ideas of park playground games for kids. 

Cheers to an active and wonderful winter

Just because it’s cold and snowy outside doesn’t mean you can get out there and have fun! Kids need time outside in the winter just as much as they do in the summer. Time spent outdoors during the winter helps their immune system, gets their blood flowing, and helps them get essential nutrients. I hope this post gave you some ideas for fun new things to do to keep your kids active, outdoors, and having fun! So bundle up and get ready for a fun winter of outdoor fun. Adventure awaits even when it’s cold outside!

About the author

Teri is the mama of 2 adventurous kiddos (ages 7 and 9), living in Washington State. She loves to explore the outdoors, and her kids often tell her she has a “crush” on the mountains (she agrees). Teri is an avid hiker and backpacker, who enjoys getting out on solo trips as well as trips with her kids. She has been taking her kids camping, hiking, and backpacking since before they could walk. Teri loves to unplug with them, be fully present, and immerse themselves in the outdoors. She has traveled a lot of the world with her kids, they lived in China for a while, but she keeps finding herself most excited about her own backyard. Teri is passionate about inspiring other families and moms to get outside and explore the outdoors with and without their kids.

You can find more from Teri online in the following locations:
Instagram: @the.trekking.mama
Website: www.thetrekkingmama.com
RWMC posts: Teri Walzenbach

The post Practical Tips for Getting Kids Outside in the Winter appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

*This post contains affiliate links. Some products reviewed in this post were provided in exchange for review purposes, as noted below. All opinions expressed and all photos contained herein belong to the author.

Best winter boots for kids

Every parent of an outdoorsy kid in a cold climate knows the battle to find a good pair of winter boots. They are absolutely essential for winter outdoor adventures. They have to be warm but not too heavy, tough but flexible, waterproof, and easy to put on (and stay on). You need winter boots that are affordable but good quality, that fit right now but also last at least one whole season. In short, finding a good winter boot that works for your child can be a daunting task! But don’t worry, we’ve done all the work for you in finding and reviewing kids’ winter boots.

Boots: See Kai Run Gilman /Photo: @sara_mccarty

Top recommendations for kids’ winter boots

Curious minds want to know (we want to know!), what are the best winter boots for kids? We polled the moms on our Creative Team, as well as our ambassadors and online communities for their top recommended kids’ winter boots. We collected all the answers and then put those recommendations to the test to find the best winter boots for kids. We put the boots through the wringer and tested them on real kids in real winter situations. We compiled all the info here for you in this post. So, here’s the scoop on the best winter boots for kids (alphabetical order): 

• Baffin Young Hunter
• Bogs Classic II
• Kamik Snowfall P2
• Kuoma Lumilukko boot
• Land’s End Expedition
• Polarn O Pyret Kavat boot
• Saguaro Defender
• See Kai Run Gilman boot
• Sorel Yoot Pac
• Stonz West 
• VivoBarefoot Kids Lumi

A note on kids’ boot sizing

Buying kids’ winter boots is tough. You want them to be roomy enough to accommodate thick wool socks and large enough to last through at least the whole season with room to grow. On the other hand, you don’t want too much extra room in the boot, which will simply add more struggles to getting your kids outside. If their feet are sliding around inside their boot, kids have an even harder time moving around in the mud, snow, and ice of winter. Also, I’ve learned the hard way that some kids will let the boot flop around as they walk if it’s too big, breaking holes in the side of any rubber boot.

Most websites offer careful sizing directions. Sizing varies from company to company, and sometimes even between boot styles. You might have to get out a measuring tape or ruler, but it’s worth the time to find out exactly what size your child needs. One sales representative told me to make sure to measure my child’s foot while they were standing up, with their foot flat on the ground. This ensures the most accurate measurement. Then add a little extra (one website recommended 1.5 cm) for growth, and you should have the right fit for your child’s winter boots.

Boots: Yoot Pac by Sorel/Photo: Courtneyk @wildmigrationfamily

Big kids’ winter boot sizes

If you have kids that have reached double-digit ages, you may have already learned that kids’ shoe and boot sizes only go so far. My older children have been in adult shoe sizes long before they reached junior high. I’ve tried to include notes about the sizes available in the boots featured in this article. Some focus on small children, some on toddlers through little kids, and a few offer big kids sizing or identical boots in adult sizes.

Boot: Trek by Stonz

Lightweight boots help

It’s been my experience over the years that one of the biggest obstacles to getting small children outside in the winter isn’t the weather, but the gear. Both the process of putting it on and moving around in it feels absolutely overwhelming to little people. Not to mention all the extra challenges that come with trying to maneuver through snow and ice on short little legs.

So any winter boot that is easy to put on and lightweight/flexible enough for kids to move easily in wins my vote immediately! A number of the boots in this article score very high on the lightweight and flexible test, making them very easy for kids to wear in snow, ice, and slush. 

Boots: Gilman by See Kai Run

Waterproofing needs

We’d all like to think that we can buy one style of winter boot that will meet all our kids’ winter needs! That fluffy, well-insulated snow boot that’s ideal for the far north may not work for every area. Some regions seem to spend the winter season in an endless fluctuation between snow, mud, ice, and puddles. If you live in one of them, you know exactly what I’m talking about!

A typical fabric snow boot with only a waterproof bottom just ends up soaked and covered in mud. That nice, soft interior fleece never dries out, and your kids’ feet are always damp. There’s no one perfect boot for every kid in every region and every weather. For this article, we’ve reviewed a variety of insulated winter boots for different climates and situations and made notations about what weather condition each style is best suited for. 

Boot: The West by Stonz

Quality does matter

Sometimes, as parents of growing kids, we buy the most reasonably priced gear we can find. After all, children are either going to wear it out or outgrow it very quickly. And while I’m all about buying inexpensive play clothes for kids, investing in good winter outerwear is really important.

If you spend any amount of time outside in the cold, you know how necessary it is to have warm gear. It’s especially essential for little people who don’t have the body mass that we adults do to help keep warm. And with winter boots, quality really does matter! Those little toes get so icy cold unless they have good quality, insulated boots. The general consensus is that cheaper boots are never as warm.

Over the last fifteen years of being a mom, I’ve learned that it’s worth the money to buy decent outdoor winter gear for my kids. This doesn’t have to break the bank—you can find good quality kids’ outerwear on sale, at thrift stores, in online marketplaces, and on eBay. You may have to get creative, especially if you’re dressing multiple kids for the cold, but it’s worth the effort and the investment. I’ve also learned that higher-quality gear is much more likely to last for more than one child, making it more justifiable to spend money on items that can be passed down from kid-to-kid. 

Boot: Atlas by See Kai Run

Shopping sales

Shopping sales is a great way to get kids’ winter boots at a reasonable price. If you know what sizes your kids are going to need in the coming winter season, many companies offer excellent sales at winter’s end. Most of the boots featured here are up to 50% off by February.  I usually get stymied trying to figure out what sizes my kids for next winter will need that far in advance, so I’ve found myself shopping fall sales, like Black Friday. If you know what brand or model of boot you want, you can often watch for sales and get a good quality winter boot at a really good price.

Boot: Lumilukko by Kuoma

Featured boots

With all those thoughts in mind, let’s check out some of the best boots on the market for kids these days! The following boots cover a wide variety of purposes and styles, from warmly insulated tall rubber boots, to a fluffy lined barefoot shoe. Our team of outdoorsy moms let their kids put these boots to the test, and here’s what we think about this roundup of winter boots!

Boots: Kavat from Polarn O Pyret

Polarn O Pyret Kavat*

Price range: $64

Size range: Toddler – little kid

This Swedish-made boot, distributed by Polarn O Pyret, is adorable, durable, and warm. The outer rubber layer is tough and well-made, with fully welded seams and using recycled materials. Anyone whose kids spend much time out in the mud knows how important it is to have a rubber boot that holds up! I can’t even count the number of boots we’ve had to throw away over the years because they split open at the seams.

The inner lining is a wool blend that is the softest, warmest boot liner I’ve ever felt. As a huge fan of wool for its unique body-regulating abilities, I was thrilled to see that the lining is 90% wool. These boots are warm, cute, and multi-purpose. Not only does the removable lining allow these boots to span the seasons, but it also helps the boot to grow with the child’s foot. I wish they made these in adult sizes!

*These boots were gifted to the author for review purposes. 

Boots: Gilman by See Kai Run

See Kai Run Gilman and Atlas*

Price Range: $80

Size Range: Toddler—big kid

Marketed as “toddler shoes that just make sense,” See Kai Run was founded by a mom who wanted shoes to accommodate the healthy development of her son’s feet. She has built a line of footwear that meet that goal, in a variety of fun colors and styles. 

Our girls love their winter boots! They are a great choice for a lightweight, flexible, and easy on boot. The material is durable and waterproof on the outside, and soft and warm on the inside. They became instant favorites.

We love how they keep feet warm and dry, but aren’t heavy or clunky. The Velcro straps make them really easy to adjust snugly without being hard for kids to put on themselves. Both the taller Gilman boot and the Atlas short boot have been go-to footwear for my girls in all kinds of winter weather, and they’ve kept their feet warm and dry through snow, mud, and rain. This is the ideal boot for new walkers, toddlers and little kids. 

*These boots were gifted to the author for review purposes. 

Boot: Reipas by Kuoma

Kuoma Lumilukko and Reipas*

Price Range: $83-$99

Size Range: Toddler–Adult

If you’re looking for a unique, quality snow boot that’s not only warm and lightweight but also remarkably waterproof, check out Kuoma boots. Made with almost 100 years of Finish craftsmanship behind them, Kuoma boots are built for outdoor adventures in cold climates. They are amazingly light and easy to get on and off, which adds to their appeal by simplifying getting kids outdoors.

Kuoma boots have not just one, but two removable insoles for warmth and comfort. The uppers of these boots are made with a lightweight and flexible material that is completely waterproof (like a waterproof leather type material). My kids were skeptical that a boot that wasn’t solid rubber could repel water…until they stuck their whole foot in the creek and watched the water run right off! We are truly impressed with these boots.

Kuoma’s most popular kids’ winter boot, the Lumilukko, is waterproof and rated for temperatures down to -22F/-30C. It comes in a large variety of bright, fun colors and patterns. The Reipas shares many of the same qualities, but is a lace-up version with bright reflective laces. 

After decades of being a European-only company, Kuoma is about to open stores in the US and make their high-quality boots readily available across the United States. Stay tuned for updated links and product availability in early fall 2023! 

*These boots were gifted to the author for review purposes. 

Boot: Lumilukko by Kuoma

Snowfall P2 by Kamik/Photo: @elizabethstarexplores

Kamik Snowfall P2

Price Range $75

Size Range: Older toddler—big kids

My daughter has been wearing her Kamik Snowfall P2 Winter Boots for two winters now, and we could not be happier with them! In two years of wearing these boots, we have never had a complaint about them from my four-year-old. They keep her feet warm and dry while skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and playing in snow. The inner linings do an excellent job wicking away moisture. The adjustable velcro strap keeps them snug. And the bungee cord closure on top keeps snow out to keep your child’s feet warm and dry. 

My daughter has worn her Kamik boots in the snow for hours at a time and her feet are always completely dry when she takes off the boots. They are also the perfect height: tall enough that her pants stay tucked into them but not so tall that she has trouble walking or running around. There is Velcro around the ankle and bungee at the top. This helps get the perfect fit and ensures no snow gets into the boots, but the boots are also easy to get on and off, even for my four-year-old on her own. Overall they have been the perfect winter boots for us!

Elizabeth Astrella @elizabethstarexplores

Editor’s note: Kamik has a wide variety of styles and colors, as well as a large size range, making them a great option when you’re looking for winter boots for older kids.

Boots: Expedition by Lands End/Photo: Sara @midwestnomadfamily

Land’s End Expedition

Price range: $85

Size range: toddler–big kid

Lands End has long been synonymous with quality outdoor gear, and their snow boots are warm with thick padding inside. The Expedition comes with favorite features like a waterproof outer shell and good grips on the bottom. I like the zipper on the side that helps with getting them on and off quickly. My daughter also stayed completely dry, even climbing through the ice castles and snow tunnels for 90 minutes. She liked the fun color options and stylish design. They’re a great winter boot for keeping tiny toes warm and toasty. 

~Sara Lesire @midwestnomadfamily

Boots: Young Hunter by Baffin

Baffin Young Hunter*

Price range: $60-80

Size range: older toddler–youth–men (there is a similar style in women’s boot options, the Storm)

The Young Hunter by Baffin is a sturdy, all-purpose boot for mud, water, and snow. The solid rubber construction means that it can take on whatever conditions your child will encounter all winter long, and the warm liner helps keep feet warm even in icy slush. I love that the very top of the boot has fabric with an elastic drawstring to cinch the opening tight.

This boot is a great find for families like ours, who spend our winters in a constant fluctuation between icy mud puddles and snow. Our kids need a tall rubber boot that’s able to withstand the rigors of maple syrup making in February and March. Our sugar bush has deep mud holes that easily come up over the top of many kids’ winter boots. Even though it’s muddy, the weather is still cold, so we need some sort of insulation to keep their feet from freezing during the long hours we spend gathering maple sap.

These sturdy boots have checked all the boxes for our warmth and waterproof needs.  The insulated liner is also removable and washable, which makes them multi-season rubber boots.

*These boots were gifted to the author for review purposes. 

Boots: The West by Stonz 

Stonz West and Trek*

Price Range $67

Size Range: Toddler–Big Kid

Easily the cutest kids’ winter boots we’ve ever seen, the Stonz West neoprene boots are a great all-purpose winter boot. The waterproof bottom comes up past the ankle, while the fabric upper helps keep pant legs tucked in and dry. They’re perfect for snow, slush, and shallow puddles. They have enough insulation to keep little feet warm all winter in many areas–they’re rated for temperatures down to 5 degrees F.

The Stonz West boots have excellent treads on the bottom, helping kids’ feet grip even slippery surfaces firmly. Made with chemical-free rubber and eco-friendly materials, they’re good for both your little ones’ feet and the environment. This pair of boots come in a large variety of super cute colors and patterns.

The Trek by Stonz is a cozy, super lightweight snow boot for all your snow play needs. With a buckle, a Velcro strap, and an adjustable elastic band at the top, these warm boots keep the all snow out! They are easy to put on and fully lined with a removable, super-soft liner. They have waterproof bottoms, a water-resistant upper fabric, and a rated for temperatures as low as -58 degrees F!  With all those features, these cute and snuggly boots are perfect for all the snowy activities your winter can bring. 

*These boots were gifted to the author for review purposes. 

Boot: The Trek by Stonz

Boots: Yoot Pac by Sorel/Photo: Courtneyk @wildmigrationfamily

Sorel Yoot Pac

Price Range: $90

Size Range: Little kid–big kid (similar styles available in adult sizes)

Winters in Maine, we are all into Sorels. They’re warm, waterproof, and quality to pass down from child to child. The Yoot Pac youth boot is waterproof and insulated with a removable liner to keep feet warm in even deep snow. Sorel even sells replacement liners to help increase the boot’s lifespan. These boots are perfect for snow day adventures through heavy snowfall, and are an excellent choice if you want a boot that will last a long time. The one disadvantage of this durable boot is that they are a little on the heavy side.

~Courtneyk Cronin @wildmigrationfamily

VivoBarefoot Kids Lumi

Price Range: $100-125

Size Range: Toddler–Kids–Youth

Have you been hunting for a “minimalist” or “barefoot-style” boot? If so, you have to check out the Vivobarefoot Kids Lumi. The shoes are wide and flexible but still have great traction and insulation. But too, and maybe most importantly when it comes to kiddo shoes, the boots are incredibly durable.

After months of near-constant wear at forest school and beyond (including Thanksgiving dinner), these boots still look brand new.

My kid has put them to the test stomping through the icy shallows of cold mountain creeks and scrambling up trees. At no point has she complained that her feet were cold or wet. It took me three years to find the perfect barefoot kiddo boot. Now that I have, I foresee more pairs of these kids winter boot in our future! Maybe they come in mama sizes too?!

~Somer Pickel @somerpickel

Saguaro Defender winter shoe

Saguaro Defender*

Price Range: $80

Size Range: Toddler-big kids

If you’re looking for lightweight winter footwear that isn’t exactly a boot, but will keep your kids’ feet warm through winter playground and hiking activities, check out this insulated barefoot shoe from Saguaro! With a splash-resistant outer material and warm fleece lining, this is a great alternative to a heavy boot when all you need is a lightweight shoe. We love how flexible and comfy the rubber soles are, while still offering warmth and some water protection. They give kids’ feet that barefoot feel during winter play without cold feet.

*These boots were gifted to the author for review purposes. 

Bogs Classic II no handle camo

Bogs Classic II

Price range: $90

Size range: Toddler – big kid

If you’re looking for the most rugged durable waterproof boot, check out the Bogs Classic II boots. These boots provide great traction for tromping through the mud and snow, plus, a wide toe box for thick wool socks and room to grow. They are heavy, so they’re better for older kids. My son (age 10) wears these for hunting, playing in the snow, fishing, hiking, and more. They’ve lasted longer than any other boot we’ve tried, and we’re been impressed with their durability. Bogs offers boots in baby sizes through adults (men and women). They come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, styles, and price points. 

Sara McCarty @sara_mccarty

What are your favorite kids’ winter boots?
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About the author

Leslie is an Ohio farm girl and chaser of light, children, and sometimes chickens. She’s a lover of Jesus, wife to her high school sweetheart, and a homeschooling mom of four wild rascals who love the great outdoors as much as she does. As a family, they love hiking, camping, fishing, and just about any outdoor activity. She and her husband are just beginning the process of building a homestead from the ground up, doing most of the work themselves. Leslie has a lifelong obsession with writing and capturing everyday life from behind the lens. Follow along with their homesteading, homeschooling, and everyday adventures on her Instagram account.

You can find more from Leslie in the following locations:
Instagram: @c_l_allofus
Leslie’s RWMC posts: Leslie Alvis

The post Best Kids’ Winter Boots appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

*This post was sponsored by Wylder Hope Valley. Activities and accommodations were exchanged for review purposes. All opinions expressed and all photos contained herein belong to the author.

Cross-country skiing with kids

Are you looking for a fun way to get outside, explore, and be active with your kids during the winter months? Looking for an activity that is accessible to beginners and does not require much gear to get started?  Well then, we have a great option for you!

Cross-country skiing with kids is such a great sport to try this winter.  With very little (or no!) experience, this is a great winter outdoor activity for children and a great way for the whole family to explore during the cold winter months together!

What is cross-country skiing?

Unlike downhill skiing, cross-country skiing involves gliding across relatively flat terrain, relying on your own power and strength to move yourself from point A to B. The classic style of cross-country skiing entails shuffling your legs back and forward (as if you’re running). The more-complex skating method involves moving your legs side to side in an ice skating-like motion. 

Cross-country skiing is a sport you can try on your own, as a family, with a friend, or take lessons from a professional instructor.  Most ski resorts offer cross-country ski rentals, coupled with lessons. Cross-country skiing is definitely less daunting than traditional downhill skiing or snowboarding, more affordable, and much more accessible. 

Benefits of cross-country skiing for kids

Cross-country skiing is a low-impact sport and an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise. Sliding across snow-covered trails is much more strenuous than it looks! Cross-country skiing works every single muscle you have and helps improve balance, coordination, and agility. 

Cross-country skiing is also an activity that’s easy to pick up at any age and can be done together as a family. It’s a great way to get outside and explore together during those cold dark winter months when kids can really benefit from fresh air and physical exercise. The mental benefits of spending time outside also apply, such as a reduction of stress and anxiety. 

Wylder Hope Valley

We had the opportunity to visit a beautiful resort that offers cross-country skiing sessions, along with many other family-friendly winter activities.  We love to discover destinations where access to adventure is easy for the entire family. Let me introduce you to Wylder Hope Valley; it is an all-season resort tucked away in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Alpine County, California, right in the middle of Hope Valley.

Alpine County (and Hope Valley), is only a 20-minute drive from South Lake Tahoe, but it feels like you’re in another world. This majestic area will take your breath away. Located on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevadas, northeast of Carson Pass, Alpine County is California’s least populous county. The US government owns 96% of Alpine County, the highest percentage in the state, including 3 national forests: Eldorado, Stanislaus, and Humboldt–Toiyabe. And because of its sparse population, Hope Valley is one of the best places in all of California to stargaze!

Located along the banks of West Carson Fork River and nestled in a grove of aspen trees, Wylder Hope Valley offers a variety of lodging options, such as cabins, traditional campsites, RVs, and custom yurts. Most of the adorable cabins were brought in from around the world, themed, and impeccably outfitted. 

Cross-country skiing with kids at Wylder Hope Valley

Wylder Hope Valley offers wonderful activities for the whole family all year long! Enjoy fly fishing, wildflower hikes, and mountain biking during the spring and summer months.  Hope Valley is a popular destination in the fall for its picturesque autumn colors and aspen groves.  You can explore the area’s gorgeous trails and fall colors, taking in views of all the beautiful aspen trees and fall foliage. 

In the winter, the area turns into a literal Winter Wonderland! You will find amazing views and snow-capped mountains, wide-open valleys, and pristine rivers. During the winter months, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular activities. 

We took advantage of all the snow we’ve gotten and decided to give cross-country skiing a try! We booked a lesson through Wylder to learn the basics, which we’re now passing on to you! Joyce and Todd manage the ski shop and have over 30 years of experience skiing and teaching. Joyce set us up with the equipment we needed, and we were on our way!

Todd & Joyce Coker – Wylder Hope Valley Ski Shop  

What you need to cross-country ski with kids

You will need the following gear and equipment to cross-country ski:

• Skis – two styles, classic or skate (see below)
• Boots – must be compatible with your skis 
• Poles – it is important that they are sized correctly 
• Base layer – made for snow conditions 
• Snow jacket and pants
• Warm socks
• Waterproof gloves – when skiing with kids, warm hands and feet are of most importance 
• Eye protection (sunglasses/ski goggles) – really important even on cloudy days

There are two styles of cross-country skis, classic and skating. We opted for classic skis, these are usually made for trails that are already groomed, and you move them in a similar motion like walking or running.  Skate skis are made to move faster and at higher speeds. 

Dress for the weather

It is important to dress in layers that you can remove as you move through your session.  It’s very cold when you’re just getting started, but by the middle of the session, our kids were ready to strip down to their base layers.  It is quite a workout, and you will work up a sweat! We highly recommend a good merino wool base layer because it’s naturally breathable and can absorb large quantities of moisture (so you don’t feel wet and cold). 

When it’s cold outside, your child’s head, ears, hands, and feet are most prone to cold exposure. Extremely cold weather can cause two potentially serious conditions: hypothermia and frostbite. To ensure they stay toasty and warm, make sure you have heavy socks, waterproof boots, waterproof gloves, a scarf, and hat, and/or ear muffs on hand depending on changes in weather. For older children and toddlers, gloves are needed when the weather is 40°F or lower.

Additional items to pack for cross-country skiing

Here are a few extra things to consider bringing with you when skiing with littles.  We brought along a backpack and carried a few extra items that came in handy during our session.

• Snacks 
• Sunscreen – even on cloudy days
• Hand and feet warmers 
• Water 
• Phone 
• Extra change of clothes – which you can leave in the car to change into afterward

Cross-country skiing basics

Todd, our amazing instructor, was super patient with us and gave the kids plenty of time to play in a flat area to familiarize themselves with their skis before we got started. We then moved right into the lesson and started working on the basics of cross-country skiing.

We started by learning how to put on the skis and move around on skis, making our way around a flat area. The kids practiced shuffling around and walking back and forth to get a feel for how the skis move. Similar to downhill skiing, balance is very important when cross-country skiing.  We learned how to shift and move our weight correctly so that we could move in the direction we wanted and use our weight to our advantage. 

Next, we learned how to use our poles. Our poles were strap-wrapped around our wrists correctly to avoid getting tangled up or lost. If you have little kids (under age 8), you might even start them out without poles. Sometimes poles just get in the way for younger kids who are just learning how to balance and move around. 

Finally, we learned how to fall (and get back up again). Practicing this makes falling into less of a fail and more of a game.

Hitting the cross-country trails

Once we had the basics down, we set out along some groomed trails.  The kids got the hang of it pretty quickly.  The most challenging part was getting up after a fall, but after a few times, they mastered the skill.  They made their way through pretty deep snow-covered trails.  It was definitely a workout, and by the end of our adventure,they were completely exhausted! (I call that a win!)

There was an incredible amount of snow on the ground due to recent storms, so it was pretty difficult to move through so much fresh snow. However, we managed to learn the basics and still had so much fun. We didn’t even mind the cold weather.  The mountains, the fresh air, and something about being out in the middle of this valley made this such a memorable experience. We can’t wait to come back again and put our new skills to good use! 

Cross-country skiing safety 

When you’re heading out into the elements with kids, it’s really important to take weather and snow conditions into consideration. Check weather information ahead of your trip and continue to do so the day of. Selecting the right area for skiing is key.

Choose an area that matches your skill and comfort level.  Staying on groomed trails is a much safer option; only experienced skiers should venture out into backcountry trails where the risk of going off trail is higher.  As a beginner, it is important to stick to areas that are marked and closely monitored.  While it is a pretty low-risk sport, and almost everyone can enjoy it, it is important to know our limitations.  

Ultraviolet radiation is something to consider and, therefore, it’s super important to wear eye protection and sunscreen.  

Last, consider animal safety and familiarize yourself with the area and carry appropriate safety items such as bear spray. 

After skiing fun at Wylder

After a full day of adventure, we went back to our cabin at Wylder to relax and unwind.  Whether you are looking for a cozy rustic log cabin, a camping weekend, or a glamping experience, you will find it at Wylder! We enjoyed the most amazing dinner onsite at Sorenson’s Cafe, which offers seasonal home-cooked meals all year long. Their homemade tomato soup hit the spot after a cold day out!  We picked up a cherry pie from the General Store (right by the Ski Shop) and enjoyed it by a cozy fire back at our cabin. 

Like so many families, we are constantly seeking out wild destinations where adventure is easily accessible.  We love places where it is easy to get outside, create memories and disconnect in nature; Wylder Hope Valley offers that and so much more. We have now added a new activity to our skill set and look forward to returning to Hope Valley to put our new skills to use!

Wylder Hope Valley
1425 CA-88
Hope Valley California 96120
Phone: 530-694-2203
guestserviceshv@wylderhotels.com

Have you ever been cross-country skiing? 

About the author

Araceli is a wife and momma to three wild and adventurous littles. She believes that nature and free play are truly the foundation of a beautiful childhood. Araceli and her husband have made it a priority to raise their children with a strong bond to the great outdoors. Araceli is a working mom with an extensive career in Project Management. She’s creative, crafty, and loves collecting houseplants. As a family, they love exploring wild places, and she loves documenting their adventures.

Find more from Araceli in the following locations:
Instagram: @roaminggonzalez
All RWMC posts: Araceli Gonzalez 

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From skateboarding to snowboarding

For over two years my kids had been begging us to take them to the mountains to learn how to snowboard. They are avid skateboarders and all of their skater friends kept telling them they’d love snowboarding and pick it up quickly.

We live in Virginia Beach, so snowy mountains aren’t readily accessible to us. We do have some places a few hours west, but having grown up in Vermont, I just couldn’t get past the idea of my children starting their journey in the beautiful Green Mountain State!

Having said that, I’ll note that I did NOT grow up skiing every minute of the winter as some may assume. I grew up in an ice hockey family, so we never went skiing in the wintertime because we spent so much time in hockey rinks during the winter months. Since then, I have been skiing a handful of times over the years, all in the very spot we decided to take our own children to learn how to snowboard (which made this whole experience super special)!

Learning a new skill

As a parent, I’m sure many of you can relate to the conundrum of your children being interested in something you cannot teach them! First skateboarding and then snowboarding, they’ve been a bit out of luck when it comes to learning skills and sports from me. I am NOT a skateboarder (shocking, I know), but I have learned how to foster my children’s growth in the sport. I knew I could do the same with this new interest in snowboarding.

So, whether or not you’re a skateboarder or snowboarder (or a skier or have never even been on a mountain), you can, too! You don’t have to know how to do ALL THE THINGS in order to provide your kids with opportunities to learn something new. You can jump in together! It’s a great way to show them that you can learn and try new things at any age! 

Here is how it went for us…

Snowboarding check-in and rentals

We arrived at Bolton Valley Resort on a Monday evening. We checked in to our awesome room in the mountainside lodge. It was perfect for our family of 4. Right after check-in, we headed over to the rental shop to get outfitted with all of our gear.

My husband and I got set up for skiing and the boys got their snowboarding gear. The staff members in the rental shop were so helpful in getting us everything we needed to get started! If you’ve ever been through the process of renting ski or snow gear with (or even without) kids, you know how frustrating this process can be. The staff made it all so easy and answered all our questions about fit, gear, comfort, and sizing. 

Snowboarding gear for kids

The boys got fitted and set up with boots, bindings, boards, and helmets. Since this is something we’ve never done before, it was super helpful to have knowledgeable professionals there to make sure we were set up properly! I do highly recommend renting gear on-site because it’s so easy to grab your things and head out on the mountain or bring it back to your room.

The gear they had available was high-quality gear. They even have seasonal rentals if you live in the area but don’t want to spend the money to purchase it for your entire family. This is especially a good idea with littles that are just trying it out to see if they like it!

Snowboarding lessons for kids and practice hill

Since we don’t snowboard, we opted for lessons for both boys first thing in the morning the next day at Bolton Valley Resort! The instructor they had was amazing! He was encouraging, relaxed, knowledgeable, and patient. By the time they were done lesson, both boys could independently clip in, and get up and down a small sloped area.

Once they were mobile, we moved on to the rope tow hill. We spent the rest of the day practicing here, while taking frequent breaks to rest, eat, hydrate, and warm-up whenever necessary! It is critical to take breaks frequently. You know your children best, so you’ll know when they’re becoming too frustrated, cold, or hungry.

Like with any new skill, there is a fine line between the point when encouraging your children to keep trying and knowing when it’s becoming too much and they need a break to reset. 

Practicing with the tow rope

The rope tow hill at Bolton Valley was the perfect spot for learning the basics of snowboarding with kids. It is large enough to have a nice ride down, but not intimidating or too difficult. I actually chose to stand in my boots and take off my skis while the boys were learning how to get up and down the hill. They did need me to occasionally walk to them to assist them, and it was easier for me to assist them without my skis on. But you could leave your gear on as well, if that’s what you’d prefer.

The staff at the tow rope were so incredibly helpful and patient! They paid very close attention and assisted every person, from toddlers to adults, as they were learning. They were absolutely wonderful and so encouraging. 

Making to the lifts

The boys spent the entire first day on the rope tow hill at Bolton Valley. My oldest (age 9) practiced a couple more times the next morning, and then decided he was ready for the lifts! We made sure that he was able to show enough control to turn and slow himself down when he got going too fast before sending him up the mountain.

I stayed with our younger son, while my husband took the older one up to try out the easiest trail! He said he fell a lot but was smiling from ear to ear and so proud of himself. He spent the rest of the day riding with his dad, while I stayed with his brother who ended up not feeling well. (You know how vacations go with kids – someone always ends up sick, right?!) 

From skateboarding to snowboarding

So, did all of that skateboarding really help them learn to snowboard quickly? Well, sort of…

Since I don’t have a reference point for how long it takes most people to learn to ride a snowboard, it’s hard for me to judge. However, the staff at Bolton were impressed by how quickly they picked it up and surprised our oldest was able to go up and down the mountain within 24 hours.

The movement and balancing they’re used to with skateboarding definitely made the transition easier! I think both of the boys were surprised by how challenging snowboarding was for them given their skating skills. I think they assumed they’d be zipping down the mountain with ease on day one. It didn’t quite happen that easily, but it was a great lesson to learn and experience for both of them. They both loved the challenge of trying something new! I know they’ll be asking us to go again as soon as the fall arrives this year. 

Other activities at Bolton Valley Resort

One of our absolute favorite things about Bolton Valley Resort is that it has an indoor skatepark!! I mean, does it get any better than a ski resort that also has a skatepark?! (No, it doesn’t.)

The skatepark is attached to the Sports Center and has both street and traditional features. It includes a micro mini ramp, a mini ramp, a vert ramp, and even a bowl to ride. It was like a dream come true for my kids to be able to go from snowboarding to skateboarding all day long.

The Sports Center also includes a pool, sauna, and hot tub, as well as a game room. And everything at the resort is close enough together that you can easily walk from your room, to the lifts, to the restaurants, to the Sports Center as much as you want! It doesn’t feel overwhelming because it’s all easily accessible. 

Night skiing and snowboarding at Bolton Valley

Another extra special thing about Bolton Valley Resort is that it’s the only ski resort in Vermont that offers night skiing and riding! Typically offered 5 days a week, this is definitely one of the unique highlights of skiing and riding at Bolton. The atmosphere at the resort during night skiing and riding is so much fun! There is a vibe that you just can’t find anywhere else. Night skiing and riding runs from 4:00-10:00 PM and gives you the opportunity to ski and ride during sunset, which is a stunning sight. 

Summer at Bolton Valley

During the summer months, Bolton Valley opens up its trails and lifts for mountain biking, which looks like a blast. They also have hiking, live music nights, and skate camps for kids. So, if you’re visiting Vermont in the summer months, it is definitely still worth checking out all Bolton has to offer!

Dining at Bolton Valley

In between all of the hard work skiing, riding, skateboarding, and swimming, we took lots of breaks to rest and refuel! There are several spots to grab a bite and a drink at Bolton Valley Resort. The Base Lodge Cabin offers quick breakfasts, lunches, and snacks. My kids are huge breakfast burrito fans so those were a big hit for us! The James Moore Tavern has a great menu and selection of local brews.

When in Vermont, be sure to try the poutine and amazing local beers and ciders. Fireside Flatbread offers fresh flatbreads and pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven. If you happen to be visiting during a Thursday – Sunday evening, you may also find that Miso Toh Kome is open! Miso Toh Kome is a slopeside stand that offers Japanese onigiri, sushi rice balls, miso soup, and Japanese coffee. 

Quick Summary of Bolton Valley Resort

What I love:

• Small resort, so really great for just starting out
• Recommend staying right there because little ones get tired and cold. You can go back and forth from your room to the lifts all day.
• Night skiing/riding!
• The skatepark (of course)
• On-site dining options – breakfast burrito and maple breakfast sandwich were especially a hit. And the poutine! 
• Lifts and trails don’t feel overwhelming
• Super friendly staff 
• Convenient lessons right outside the lodge for quick and easy access
• Resort location is close to Burlington (most of the ski resorts in Vermont are not)
• Laidback vibe – doesn’t feel stuffy or pretentious like some larger, busier, more well-known ski resorts
• Sauna, pool, and hot tub

Tips for snowboarding with kids at Bolton Valley 

• Bring extra snacks and drinks for the mini fridge so you don’t have to drive back down the mountain to get what you need
• Stay at the resort to eliminate unnecessary stress! It’s so much more enjoyable to have a room right at the lifts than to worry about going back and forth between lodging and skiing/riding. 
• Take breaks as often as needed
• Check the dining facility schedule for which place is open and when. Then plan your time on the mountain around that!
• Bring your skate gear! You won’t want to pass up the epic skatepark.
• Be prepared for all kinds of weather, especially if you’re planning a spring trip, as we did! Plan to dress in layers.
• Goggles helped. I wasn’t planning to get everyone goggles, thinking we wouldn’t need them. However, we did have a day that was incredibly windy and the goggles helped a lot with keeping the kids more comfortable since the wind gusts and snow were blocked from their eyes. 

Bolton Valley Resort information

Website: www.boltonvalley.com

Address: 4302 Bolton Access Rd, Richmond, VT 05477

Phone: (802) 434-3444

Have your kids tried snowboarding?

About the author

Chelsea is a photographer, mother of two busy boys, and a sunshine and fresh air addict. Her family lives in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and spends as much time outdoors as they possibly can! Most of their outdoor adventures involve exploring the beach, inlets, and nature trails nearby. They love biking, hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, building forts, and playing in the sand! During the warm months, you can find them enjoying the Chesapeake Bay almost every night until long after the sun goes down. They’re doing our best to reduce their carbon footprint and always try to leave every trail cleaner than it was when they arrived. Chelsea is also the Run Wild My Child Sustainability Expert and helps spearhead our efforts at reducing our carbon footprint and leads our eco-challenges.

You can find Chelsea online in the following locations:
Instagram: @dimples.and.the.blonde
Website: dimplesandtheblonde.com
RWMC posts: Chelsea Furlong

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A guide to getting started downhill skiing with kids

Winter is ski season

When the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, it can be hard to motivate even the most active of kids to get outside. We’ve found that sometimes the best way to get outside in the cold is to find something you really enjoy doing and can look forward to. So, for our family, those blustery, cold, dreary, days at the end of the year have a silver lining – IT’S SNOWING IN THE MOUNTAINS! We have found an activity that everyone in our family loves to do in the winter. So now, every year, our family looks forward excitedly to the first snow and the promise of the ski season ahead!

Benefits of downhill skiing for kids

There are so many amazing benefits of skiing for both kids and adults. Aside from being the perfect excuse to spend the day outside, skiing allows you to access beautiful places you would never otherwise get to see. It’s also great for improving balance and coordination. Even little kids can quickly feel empowered as they navigate moving at (relative!) speed down the mountain. Once the basics have been mastered the whole mountain really does become a playground.

Skiing increases your child’s body and spatial awareness. While skiing, your child must be aware of what each part of their body is doing, as well as where they are positioned on the slopes in relation to others. Skiing improves strength, coordination, and balance. If you’ve skied before you know how strong your legs and core need to be for all those turns and stops. Skiing can also teach your child perseverance and foster a sense of confidence and healthy competition. 

Downhill skiing with kids also brings the whole family together in a way that few other outdoor activities can. Skiing is an activity that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. Often the kids’ grandparents join us for the day and all three generations ski together.  We alternate skiing with frequent stops to grab a snack, treat ourselves to a hot chocolate or admire the view.

An introduction to downhill skiing with kids

Whether you’re a skier yourself or skiing is something that you’d love for your family to try, here is all you need to know to get your kids started downhill skiing! Today, I’ll walk you through the basics of how to get started skiing with kids, the best age for kids to start skiing, what to wear on the slopes, the low-down on renting or buying ski gear, tips on choosing a beginner ski resort, whether ski lessons are worth it, tips for skiing with a beginner, and so much more! 

So, lace up your snow boots, and let’s get to it! 

Have fun (and keep your expectations low)

Before we get into the logistics and technical skills of skiing with kids, it’s important start with your mindset and expectations. Remember that although you want your kids to learn to downhill ski, this should NOT be the goal for their first few times on the mountain. First and foremost, the goal when first learning to ski should be to have FUN! So, get rid of any expectations right now, arm yourself with a solid dose of patience, pack your sense of humor, and make the experience as entertaining as possible! 

If your child is very small then they will probably just want to play in the snow at first. Once kitted out, they’ll also need some time to get used to the gear. Walking in ski boots can be a challenge! On skis, games will be your friend – Simon Says, Follow the Leader, imagining they are a super hero… there are a myriad of ways to get kids moving!

The best age for kids to start downhill skiing

What is the best age for a child to start learning to ski?

The short answer is ANY AGE! There’s no real “magic age” that’s perfect for kids to start learning to ski. Kids can start skiing at nearly any age (so don’t worry, you haven’t missed anything).

Kids as young as 2 years old can have fun on a very gentle slope but they are unlikely to join you on a real piste any time soon. At 2, 3, or 4 years old, most kids will enjoy play-based activities on skis. They may well learn to turn and stop by themselves, but they will be far from ready to hit the slopes. However, this early practice will greatly pay off, as they’ll have the benefit of knowing how to move in skills and are used to wearing ski boots.

From the age of 5 onwards, kids will learn skiing skills more quickly. It wouldn’t be unreasonable to expect them to handle an easy slope after a couple of days of practice. Fortunately, kids this age have very little fear of falling (and they’re low to the ground, so falls aren’t as hard on them), and so they make progress FAST!

Know your child’s personality and abilities

However, when learning any new sport or activity, a lot also depends on the child’s personality. Not every kid progresses the same. Not every 5-year-old will be ready to start skiing and not every 3 year-old will only want to play games in the snow. A lot will depend on your child’s personal comfort (ski gear can be bulky/heavy and may be tough for kids with sensory issues), your child’s athletic abilities (skiing takes a lot of leg and core strength), and their confidence/perseverance (learning to ski takes a lot of time and kids fall a lot – it can get frustrating).

Again, just remember that skiing should be FUN. Follow your child’s lead when it comes to what they are comfortable doing. 

Downhill skiing with kids: what should kids wear? 

Getting the family kitted out for skiing can feel daunting. There are a LOT of pieces and layers and items. And while the outdoor industry might want you to believe you have to have special “ski-specific gear” for downhill skiing, that’s not necessarily the case. If you have young kids and have already spent time outside in the snow then you probably have most of what you need. Simply put, children need to stay WARM and DRY. And that can be done in any good winter gear, whether it was made for skiing or not.

Layering for downhill skiing

The biggest tip for dressing kids when downhill skiing is to LAYER. When skiing with kids, you’ll need to be prepared for all weather, as conditions in the mountains can change quickly. The easiest way to be extra prepared is with layering. Your kids may need to add (or remove) a layer here and there to stay warm or cool off. Thin layers are your friend as they can be taken off or added as required.

So, from the first layer to the last, here’s what you will need to outfit your kids for downhill skiing:

1. Long thermal underwear: Opt for a merino wool or a synthetic fabric baser layer, as these are more breathable and quicker drying than cotton-mix fabrics. Choose a long-sleeved top and long bottoms. Make sure they are comfortable (some kids can be very sensitive to itchiness – perhaps snip out any tags) and make sure they’re not too tight. For more info on wool layers, check out our article on The Best Merino Wool Base Layers for Kids and Toddlers.
2. A warm, insulating layer: This might be a fleece or a synthetic top. Avoid cotton or anything too bulky. This layer will get taken on and off the most, so a full-length zip makes this easier. Avoid a hooded top that adds unnecessary bulk behind the neck.
3. Warm socks: Socks for skiing need to come well above the top of the ski boot and should be a mixture of wool and synthetic fibers. Having two pairs of warm socks is useful. If your kids are like mine, socks are notorious for disappearing or getting soaked! It’s always handy to have a spare pair. 
4. Snow pants: Insulated pants that are reliably waterproof and breathable are a must for skiing. Ski pants will have a gaiter around the bottom to stop snow coming up the inside of the leg. Most children’s pants will come with straps to hold them up, but bibs are even better as they also come up high enough to stop snow from getting in at the waist. All-in-one snowsuits are another option that are great for keeping kids warm and dry. But beware…if your child is in nappies, potty training or might need to unexpectedly pee at the side of the piste, they are not very practical! 
5. Ski jacket: Like the pants, the material for your winter coat (your outer layers) needs to be waterproof but breathable. Choose an insulated jacket for warmth. 
6. Gloves/ mittens: Mittens are warmer than gloves for little fingers, so opt for these with younger kids. I like ones that come well up the arm and can be secured with a bungee cord. This is easier than tucking the mittens inside the sleeve of the jacket. Mittens are often the first thing to get wet, and wet/ cold hands = game over. If you can, keep a spare pair in your backpack or dry them out if you’re somewhere inside for lunch. For recommendations, check our Gear Review on the Best Kids Gloves and Mittens.
7. Neck warmer: This keeps cold air and snow from going down the neck. This can be a scarf or (even better), a neck gaiter. It can be pulled up over the nose if it’s windy and cold. My kids prefer the thinner ones – a synthetic material or merino wool is best as it dries quickly (because, you know, snot).  
8. Helmet: Wearing a helmet when skiing is a non-negotiable! Helmets can be rented, or if you’d prefer to buy one, then you’ll probably get at least 2 seasons out of it. Most are adjustable and can worn a few years. 
9. Goggles: Children’s goggles are generally inexpensive and likely to last a few seasons too. Make sure that they fit snugly around the face and work with the helmet that you have. 

Budget-friendly ski gear

Dedicated ski clothing is worn for just a few months of the year. Children grow quickly, so it can feel overwhelming purchasing nice ski gear that you know they’ll grow out of within a season or two. While we highly recommend good-quality gear, we don’t want your gear to break the bank or prevent you from getting outside.

Because kids usually grow out of winter gear before they wear it out, great quality items can be found on second-hand marketplaces. There are so many ways to get great gear and clothing second-hand now. With lots of different sales sites and apps like Poshmark, ThredUp, and Mercari, it’s easier than ever. You can even look locally using Facebook marketplace or search your local consignment or thrift shop. If you know other families that ski (maybe with kids of different ages than yours), you can also host a clothing swap with your friends and neighbors!

When looking for budget-friendly ski equipment and gear, shopping second-hand can save you a lot of money. If you live in a mountainous (ski-friendly) area, ski clubs, rental shops and rec departments often host ski swaps and used ski gear sales in the fall. This is a great place to buy used ski equipment. Decathlon is a great place to buy new but inexpensive good-quality gear. Other options for finding great deals on used ski gear are Facebook marketplace, eBay, Craigslist, and other used gear shops. 

Kid’s ski equipment – should you rent or buy?

While the decision to rent or buy ski gear is a personal one, you might want to consider how much skiing you’ll be doing before making a big purchase. Young children grow quickly and so are unlikely to use the same size boots or possibly skis for more than one season. And ski equipment can be very expensive, depending on the quality and brand you choose. If it’s your first time skiing, I highly recommend you rent or even borrow ski gear to see if skiing is something you’ll continue doing. 

We live in Switzerland and ski the entire winter. For this reason, we have always rented equipment in the early years. If you’ll be skiing regularly throughout the winter, you can rent/lease gear for the whole season. We ski a lot over the course of a winter, so this makes financial sense for us. Renting for individual days can quickly get expensive quickly, but might be the best option if you’ll only be skiing a few days out of the year. Rental equipment is usually reasonably priced and can be fitted each time for your child as they grow, ensuring proper fit. 

Buying skis or boots new or second-hand if you know that you’ll be skiing regularly in a season or then passing them on to a younger sibling (or reselling them) is also a cost-effective option and may be the best thing for you. 

Choosing ski equipment for children 

Now that we’ve covered clothing and whether to rent ski gear or buy it, let’s talk about how to choose the right ski gear for your little ones. Getting the right equipment for your kids will allow them to progress at the right level and have fun. You want to choose skis that are suitable for on-piste (on groomed marked trails) because that is where your child can easily learn and develop their skills. When you are choosing skis for your kids it is also important to select skis appropriate for their level of experience. For example, beginner skis will always be softer and more forgiving compared to advanced skis.

Skis for kids

Making sure your child is using the correct pair and size of skis for their size and ability will help them learn faster. As a rough guide, kids’ skis should come up to the child’s chin. Shorter skis are easier to turn. While it won’t make a difference to the ski’s performance, don’t underestimate the power of skis in a certain color/ with a certain graphic to get your child excited about skiing!

Ski poles for kids

Poles just get in the way when first learning to ski and should NOT be used at all until the child is comfortably turning and skiing parallel between turns. Once your child is comfortable on skis, poles can help with balance or quick turns. To make sure your poles are the right length, have your child stand in their ski boots and hold the poles. Their elbows should be at a 90-degree angle. Make sure the wrist strap is adjusted comfortably.

Ski boots for kids

The right fit in your child’s ski boots can make a big difference to their experience on skis. The most important thing is to get the correct size and boot type. Children’s ski boots are generally soft in flexibility (although, they can still be uncomfortable) and can have between 1 and 4 buckles. When trying on boots, wear ski socks for an accurate fit. You don’t want them to be too tight, but you also don’t want them to be too loose. Kids should be able to wiggle their toes with ease, but have a snug fit around the ankle for support. 

Ski boots should ALWAYS be custom fitted to the bindings on the skis your child will be using. A ski technician will make adjustments according to the child’s size, weight, and ability. This is really important for the child’s safety when skiing. You want the binding to release under the right amount of force. 

Choosing a child-friendly ski resort

When choosing the best ski resort for kids and families, there are many factors to take into consideration: cost, availability of lessons, ease of access to the slopes, the difficulty of runs, etc. Here are some of the things you may want to think about 

Easy access to slopes

When beginning your search, you want to find one with easy access to the beginner area so that you don’t have to walk a long way. Skiing requires a LOT of gear and it can be very heavy to lug around. Plus, walking in ski boots is a challenge at the best of times, let alone when you’re carrying everything (including a kid). The closer you are to the slopes and the ski areas, the better! Ski-in/ski-out locations are ideal choices for families because they require so little transport time and logistics. If on-site lodging or slopeside access isn’t an option, take a peek at resort maps beforehand and figure out the best place to access the slopes, either from a specific parking lot or bus/shuttle route. 

Difficulty of runs (kid-friendly areas)

When children are learning to downhill ski they need wide, flat, gentle slopes. Look for somewhere that gets the sun as this softens the snow for any tumbles and is just more pleasant overall. Sometimes an area will only be in the sun for part of the day. Often resorts will have specially marked nursery slopes (bunny hill) for beginners.

Dedicated learning zones specially designed for young children to learn to ski are even better. These areas often have magic carpets that the children can ride up the slope, avoiding the need to learn how to ride a lift. There are obstacles, inflatables, carousels and other props to make the experience interactive and fun. There may even be small jumps that are great for keeping more confident beginners interested while their younger siblings get started.

Longer slopes are also better as the child has more time to find their groove and link their turns together. Once your child’s ability level increases and they graduate from these learner zones, choose a wide, gentle slope to practice on. 

Look for kid ski free programs

Cost is also a consideration when choosing where to ski. Often children under a certain age will be able to ski for free. Most major ski resort allows toddlers (and sometimes preschoolers) to ski free. Look closely at the age that a ski resort begins charging for lift tickets as this can start as early as 3 or 4 years old, but may not be until several years later (7 or 8).

Here in Switzerland, you pay a separate, small fee to use the children’s snow parks. This is far more economical than buying a day pass or lift tickets for the whole area. There is no point in buying a lift pass covering a large area for a child who is just learning to ski! 

Crowds and lifts

The less crowded the ski resort, the better! No one likes waiting forever in lines or constantly feeling like you may ski into someone on the slopes. The less crowded a resort, the better. Consider smaller resorts or going on off-days (during the week).

Chair lifts can be intimidating for little ones just getting the hang of skiing. Cable car access is best as it takes away the stress of learning to use a chair life or a drag lift and gives the child a proper rest between runs. 

Other resort amenities and activities

If you’re going to be at a ski resort for longer than just a weekend, be sure to check out what other activities and amenities are offered. Even if you have kids who love to ski, chances are they’re not going to ski all day, every day. Many resorts have really fun non-ski activities for kids, such as snow play centers, tubing, bowling alley, terrain park, movie theaters, ice skating rinks, snowmobiling, and more. Also, some resorts offer night skiing, which is a fun option that allows you to go explore other areas during the day. 

Teaching your kids skiing: should you do it yourself?

If you are a competent skier yourself, then teaching your child to ski yourself can be very rewarding! It’s also a very affordable option. However, oftentimes it’s not the parent’s skill that determines how successful they are at teaching their child, but how much patience they have! Parents that choose to teach their child to ski on their own has to forgo their own expectations (and their own day on the slopes) to help their little one. Our advice for teaching your child to ski is to really take it slow and try to remember it’s about having fun. And always take lots of photos! Here are a few more beginner pointers. 

The basics of learning to ski

Have your child practice standing up by themselves in skis on snow first. This is not as easy as it sounds. For a little one on skis for the first time, this might take quite a while. There will be falling. There might be tears. But, it’s a skill that will be needed again and again.

Side-stepping and duck-walking come next, along with the all-important art of how to fall. Practicing this makes falling into less of a fail and more of a game.

Sliding comes next, along with learning to stop by making a pizza wedge shape with the front tips of the skis pointing towards each other. Once this is mastered then you can move on to snowplow turns.

Mastering turning will get kids skiing. Turning on skis happens from the feet, knees, and hips. Instead of telling kids to put their weight on one ski to initiate a turn, work on getting them to take an athletic stance and get skis on edge. Playing games like follow the leader are a great way to help children initiate turns.

If your child is confident linking turns and stopping, it’s time to hit the slopes! 

Training aids for kids learning to ski

There’s only really one training aid that I would really recommend and that is a ski tip connector. This is a little plastic or rubber device that clips the tips of the child’s skis together to make it easier for them to form, and hold, a snowplow. There are lots of different models – the Edgie Wedgie is a popular choice – but they all basically do the same thing and can be invaluable at the start. Inexpensive and easy to stuff in a pocket, they can be pulled out when needed to boost the child’s confidence, relieve tired legs or reduce falls due to skis crossing on top of one another.

Body harnesses and ski harness vests can be useful for very small children to pick them up when they fall or help them on and off lifts (they’re also good for cross-country skiing). However, for the most part, I would avoid using them with any kind of reins when downhill skiing. If a child’s speed needs to be checked with reins, then they are probably on a slope that’s too steep for them or need more practice at controlling their speed themselves. 

Ski schools or private lessons?

If you’re not up for teaching your child yourself (and there’s definitely no shame in that!), consider signing your child up for a lesson at the resort’s ski school or even a private lesson. Most major ski resorts offer ski schools for children, some are half-day and some are all day. The best all-day programs make plenty of time for learning and fun at an age-appropriate level. In between ski lessons, kids can take a break for snow play, tubing, hot chocolate breaks, lunch, and sometimes movies. Too much skiing can be exhausting for kids and result in frustration rather than skill improvement. 

Enrolling your child in a group lesson with the local ski school has other advantages, too. They get to hang out with (and be motivated by!) other kids. Children’s ski instructors have lots of tricks up their sleeves to make lessons fun and the skills easy for them. Often – let’s be honest – kids listen to instruction a little better when it doesn’t come from mum or dad!

If you sign up for a week’s worth of lessons this often works out more economical, and there might even be a certificate or award for your child at the end. Whether your child will thrive or not in a group environment is often very personal. Neither of my rather shy kids wanted to join a group class when they were first learning, and so we didn’t push it.

One of the disadvantages of group lessons is that you will be tied to the schedule dictated by the ski school. Sometimes with little kids, simply getting them ready to join a 9 am lesson can be a challenge in itself! So what’s the alternative? Private lessons with a private ski instructor are great but can get pricy pretty quickly. That said, you may not need more than a couple before your child has grasped the basics, particularly if they are a little bit older. 

Top tips for skiing with kids

Well, we’ve covered a lot in this post! I hope you learned a few things about starting the journey of downhill skiing with your kids. Teaching a child to ski at first can sound daunting and intimidating, but skiing is such a fun and rewarding activity that the whole family can enjoy for years to come. It’s worth it. Here are my top tips for skiing with kids. 

1. Take lots of breaks! Being outside in the cold, learning something new… it’s a lot to take in especially for very young children. Alternate time on skis with time spent playing in the snow, stopping for a snack, or warming up in a restaurant.
2. Pack a backpack with snacks, a flask/thermos of something (possibly warm) to drink, sunscreen, spare gloves and socks, tissues for runny noses, spare underwear or nappies, and an extra layer.
3. Keep small treats handy in a pocket for when your kid needs a little extra motivation. 
4. If your child has long hair, tie it up and save yourself the trauma of combing out matted strands at the end of the day! I find one or two plaits/ braids work best. 
5. Finish on a high! As tempting as it is to push for one more run, children get overtired quickly. Stop while it’s still fun, treat them to a hot chocolate at the end of the day and have them eager to return. 

My kids are now 6 and 8 and skiing has become one of our favourite things to do as a family. Being able to cruise all over a mountain on skis is an experience unlike any other and skiing is a skill they will now have for life! I wonder where it will take them?

Did you learn to ski as a child?
Are you considering learning as a family?

About the author

Sarah is originally from the UK but moved to Switzerland 14 years ago and never looked back! She lives with her Swiss partner and 2 children, aged 8 and 5, in a beautiful corner of the Swiss Alps. Together they run a large chalet and are kept busy looking after the groups and guests that stay there. Sarah enjoys anything that gets herself and her family out into nature. Skiing, hiking, and paddling on local lakes are favourite family activities, and annual camper van trips are always highlights of the year. Hugely inspired by the landscapes around her, she loves nothing more than taking her camera along to photograph or film their adventures and capture all the beautiful details of the natural world around them.

Find Sarah online in the following locations:
Instagram: @swissmountainlife
Website: www.sarahbach.ch
Chalet: @bnbvieuxchalet
More RWMC posts from Sarah: Sarah Warburton

The post Beginner’s Guide to Downhill Skiing with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Glove and mitten season

For many of us across the Northern Hemisphere, it’s that time of year again: those days when the weather makes getting kids outside a lot more complicated. The colder temperatures of the winter months always seem to surprise us with their biting chill. Driving winds, cold drizzles, and icy snowflakes all add a unique challenge to getting kids outside.

Getting your crew dressed properly for winter weather can be overwhelming! But it’s also incredibly important. When it’s cold outside, your child’s head, ears, hands, and feet are most prone to cold exposure. Extremely cold weather can cause two potentially serious conditions: hypothermia and frostbite. To ensure they stay toasty and warm, make sure you have heavy socks, waterproof boots, waterproof gloves, a scarf, and hat, and/or ear muffs on hand depending on changes in weather. For older children and toddlers, gloves are needed when the weather is 40°F or lower. 

The battle over mittens

Getting mittens that fit to stay on a child can be a real chore. Finding ones that actually stay on a child’s hands and keep little fingers warm and dry is a super-parent challenge. I think covering my kids’ hands is the final and most important step to getting them out the door in cold weather, but sometimes it’s also the hardest one.

I can’t count the times I’ve had a toddler meltdown on the floor, fully dressed for the snow except for their hands, while I frantically try to find a pair of gloves that fits or that one missing mitten. Nor can I count the times a child has dissolved into tears outside because their gloves came off or got soaked through. Once their hands are freezing, my kids inevitably decide winter is for the birds. They’re ready to hibernate indoors by the woodstove with a cup of hot chocolate until spring.

And while hot chocolate by the fire is one of the great joys of winter, so is the magic of tromping through frosty woods, catching snowflakes on your tongue, or sledding down a snow-covered hill. But having warm, dry hands seems to be the key to kids enjoying the wonders of the outdoors world during the winter months!

So here’s our round-up of the best kids’ gloves and mittens to help you get your child geared up and outside for winter. We’ve tried and tested gloves from a variety of companies, price points, and materials to find all our favorites to share with you. 

Kids’ gloves vs. mittens

Before we get started, let’s take a minute to discuss the question of gloves versus mittens. Which is best for your child? I have to say, a lot depends on your child’s age and the activities they will be doing. For younger children (babies, toddlers, preschool-aged kids), I will always go with mittens. They are SO much less frustrating for both you and your child! Trying to get ten tiny fingers into the correct finger holes in a pair of gloves can reduce both a toddler and their parent to tears. I personally think mittens help keep little fingers warmer, too. Mittens are great for sledding, making snow angels, hiking, and generally running around outside in the cold weather. 

As your kids get older, it seems like gloves vs mittens choice becomes a matter of personal preference. Some older kids prefer gloves, and some prefer mittens. Sometimes, the choice depends on the activity. For instance, mittens might be better for skiing (when you just need to hold a ski pole), but warm gloves are preferable for an activity that requires a lot of finger coordination and fine motor skill, like making snowballs for snowball fights. 

Features of kids’ winter mittens and gloves

When shopping for kids’ winter gloves and mittens, you’re sure to come across a variety of terms and descriptions. Some may be obvious, and others may be a bit tougher to know what they mean. Here’s a quick run-down of all the common terms you’ll see used to describe kids’ gloves and mittens. 

Convertible – We discussed the difference between gloves and mittens above, but convertible gloves give you the best of both worlds. This is a fingered glove with a mitten cover. The glove part is usually thinner, and not insulated. The mitten cover folds over the fingers for additional insulation, making it a versatile option for different types of weather.

Fleece-lined – Fleece-lined gloves provide a soft and comfortable interior. Fleece is lightweight insulation that adds warmth, but not bulk. It allows the digits to move with a great deal of freedom inside the glove or mitten. 

Shell mitts – These mittens aim to provide waterproof breathable protection in snowy/wet environments. Shell mitts are usually lightweight, flexible, durable, quick-drying, and compressible for easy storage. They are often layered over top of medium-weight gloves, glove liners, or thicker mittens.

Ski glove – Ski gloves are specially made for skiing. They are usually thicker, with more insulation than a regular winter glove. Ski gloves are usually made with a grippy material, such as polyurethane or leather, on the inside (palm) of the glove/mitten for help gripping ski poles. They stand up well in super cold wet weather and are usually waterproof with a lining (sometimes removable) that wicks moisture.

Synthetic materials – Synthetic materials are man-made materials such as nylon, polyester (including fleece), polyurethane, neoprene, and spandex. Man-made materials are lightweight and durable and these characteristics make them suitable for producing dependable winter gloves that are budget-friendly, waterproof, breathable, and insulated.

Waterproof – Some gloves and mittens contain waterproof breathable membranes that make them either partially or fully waterproof. Waterproof gloves and mittens shield off rain and snow. Ironically, this may not be enough for keeping your hands warm and dry because if the material isn’t breathable enough, moisture may build up inside the gloves from body heat, which can make your kids’ hands feel wet and cold. The waterproofing of the outer surface of gloves can also be increased by the application of a hydrophobic coating. Waterproof is different than water-resistant (which won’t stay dry too long with kids playing in the snow). 

Glove and mitten care

One of the drawbacks of many waterproof gloves and mittens is that they require special care. While researching for this article, I realized that many of these products call for handwashing and line drying (or even dry cleaning) your kids’ gloves and mittens. At best, that’s a nuisance. At worst, it just won’t happen!

We’re all busy parents here. And while doing what’s “best for the proper care of the gloves” would be ideal, no one has time for that. I’ve often thrown all our gloves and mittens into the washer and dryer with the other snow gear without a second thought. The faster it’s clean and dry, the better, right? 

The reason why many waterproof gloves and mittens are labeled “hand wash” and/or “line dry” is to protect the waterproofing and material. While this is important, The good news is that sending your kids gloves and mittens through the washer and dryer won’t necessarily ruin them. If your kids’ mittens or gloves (or any of their other outdoor gear) are starting to lose their waterproof qualities, you can treat them with waterproofing spray and they’ll be good to go again! 

The best kids’ gloves and mittens for outdoor play

We had the opportunity to try out quite a few pairs of gloves and mittens this winter. We’ve already experienced quite a bit of snow this winter in Ohio, so we’ve been putting them all to the test. We also gathered a few kids’ gloves and mitten reviews from members of our Creative Team, in order to give you the most comprehensive gear review we could. Here are the brands that we tested and reviewed (more information and pros/cons of all of these brands below):

• Reima Ote mittens (top pick for kids’ mittens)
• Veyo Kids Mittyz
• North Face Osito glove
• Marmot Glade Mitts & gloves (top pick for kids’ gloves)
• Snowstoppers mittens
• Columbia Kids’ Core Glove
• N’ice Caps mittens & gloves
• LL Bean mittens
• MCTi mittens
• Polarn O. Pyret Magic Wool Glove

Reima Ote Mittens

If you’re planning to have your little one out for long adventures in the cold, this may be the one mitten you want. These mittens are waterproof, dirt-repellent, and fleece-lined. They slide on easily and stay on well. Designed and crafted by one of the leaders in European children’s outdoors gear, Reima clothing is created with children’s safety and comfort in mind.

What we love: These are definitely the best toddler glove we tried. With a wide long cuff for extra-long wrist coverage and a drawstring to keep snow and cold from sneaking in, these mittens keep kids’ hands warmer and drier than I thought possible. My preschooler has played directly in icy water in these gloves and not a bit of water penetrated through. Her hands were still snuggly warm and dry when we came inside—therefore, she was still happy. For a child who perpetually hates going outside in the cold, this was a major breakthrough!

What we don’t love: The price tag for a pair of mittens is steep. At $45 a pair, they may be too costly for many families—especially those of us trying to outfit several kids. On the other hand, the quality of these mittens promises durability and they’ll probably last quite a few seasons. 

The other problem with the Reima mittens is that their label reads “Dry clean only.” Since winter play here in Ohio doesn’t only involve fluffy white snow, but also a ridiculous amount of mud, our mittens get filthy on a regular basis. Sending kids’ mittens to the dry cleaners isn’t really practical for us. Instead of dry cleaning, I’ll try hand washing these when absolutely necessary.

Photo credit: @sara_mccarty

Veyo Kids Mittyz

Veyo Mittyz are a great mitten option for younger kids, babies, and toddlers. They’re some of the warmest mittens out there for little kids. Mittyz are a unique design and are high-quality, durable, and soft. With a variety of bright animal designs, different colors, and styles, they’re fun and exciting for kids.

What we love: They don’t have a thumb hole, which makes getting them on a toddler SO much easier. They are long and generous enough that they can be worn over bulky coat sleeves. They tighten in 2 separate places with adjustable toggles for extra protection from snow – a strap at the wrist and a cinch at the base of the mitten. For the most part, they stay on a toddler’s hands very well and will keep your kids’ hands very warm and dry (waterproof and fleece-lined).

What we don’t love: Our only issue with the mittens is that due to their thickness and lack of opposable thumb, there’s a loss of dexterity and fine motor skills when wearing them. It’s very hard for kids to do much with the mittens on – they can’t even hold a water bottle or pick up sticks. My older kids get very frustrated with wearing them and end up taking them on and off a lot (which defeats the purpose). This is less of an issue with babies, toddlers, or little kids that may not need to use their fingers os much. 

Photo credit: @sara_mccarty

North Face Osito Etip Glove

Cozy and flexible, these gloves are perfect for keeping hands warm but still usable. Sometimes kids need a glove that isn’t bulky and waterproof, but that will still protect their hands. These gloves definitely fit the bill and are a great option for kids that just need warmth. They’re so soft and warm, with palm grips and e-tips on the fingers. (Even though I’m all for keeping kids off devices to enjoy the great outdoors, we all know there are times when it’s handy to be able to make a phone call without freezing fingers!)

What we love: We’ve found these to be perfect for being active out in the cold, when not actually playing in the snow or water. My daughter loves these gloves for walks and bike rides. They’re easy to get on and off, without the thick lining that many waterproof gloves have that’s always getting tangled up. Unlike thicker gloves and mittens, they allow for a lot of finger movement, so there’s great dexterity. And they come in a variety of color options to match any outdoor ensemble.

What we don’t love: Since they aren’t waterproof, they aren’t a one-glove-for-every-occasion fix. Otherwise, their only drawback is their price. At a little over $40, they’re definitely on the pricier side for a pair of gloves. However, they are well-made, durable, and do a great job protecting small hands from cold and wind. With the solid North Face brand name and reputation behind them, you know you’re getting a quality product.

Snowstoppers Mittens

We tried out these popular mittens to see how they rank against more expensive brands. With a price tag of less than $20, they are decidedly more affordable than some of the others we’ve tried. They are made from waterproof materials and insulated, but the materials feel much lighter and less durable. When my daughter stuck her hands into an icy puddle (what is it about kids and water—even ice water?), she could feel the water seep through around the seams. However, they’re still reasonably warm and seem to hold up okay to the average snow day.

What we love: The price point of these mittens brings them into the price bracket I usually spend on a pair of kids’ mittens. They offer some protection against the wet and cold and might be ideal for a climate where snow days are only an occasional thing. They come in a variety of fun colors; here they’re pictured in fuchsia.

What we don’t love: The materials and synthetic insulation aren’t as strong and thick as some of the other brands we’ve tried. However, this brand does offer a ski and snowboard glove that is a heavier weight than the original.  Also, these mittens lose points in the “easy to get on” category. The extra-long cuffs, although designed to keep wrists warm, make these mittens a challenge to get on. I don’t know how getting on winter gear goes in your house, but in our home, it’s usually a tornado of misplaced hats, socks that need to be tucked in, and zippers that need to be zipped. Then finally, when we’re all sweating and about to cry, the mittens have to go on. I really, really love a mitten that goes on easily and independently. My seven-year-old can’t get these ones on by herself, which frustrates us both.

Photo credit: RyAnn Peverley @mountain_mama4

Marmot Glade Mitts

by RyAnn Peverley

What we don’t love: These mittens have an extra-long wrist coverage with elastic closure, but it isn’t quite wide enough to fit over some coat sleeves. It’s also too bulky to fit under coat cuffs. This is obviously very frustrating when you’re trying to get a small child dressed for an outdoor adventure. 

Polarn O Pyret Magic Wool gloves

What we love: I gave these lightweight gloves a try because of their wool content. I was very curious how that would affect their performance and if it would provide more protection for little hands than your basic $2 pair from Walmart. (You know, the type kids layer two at a time when they’ve soaked through all their other gloves and don’t want to quit playing in the snow? Or the kind you toss into your bag for when someone inevitably gets to the hiking trail without any gloves?) We found them to be amazingly soft and reasonably warm. The 45% wool definitely adds some extra substance to them, but they’re still very lightweight.  

What we don’t love: These gloves are cozy but definitely not waterproof or thick enough for a seriously cold adventure. They do, however, provide a quick and easy-to-pull-on option to keep small hands protected for short periods of time. Polarn O. Pyret also makes a Waterproof Shell Mitten that can be worn over the wool gloves (0r on their own) to keep hands protected from getting cold from water and snow. They’re an additional $25-$28 per pair. 

2022 kids’ mitten and glove reviews

Hopefully, these reviews give you a place to start in the vast market of kids’ mittens and gloves! There are a lot of choices out there when it comes to the best winter gloves for kids. With so many options, we hope we’ve given you a helpful gear review for some of the best kids’ gloves and mittens on the market. Having the right gear (and particularly a good pair of gloves) can help your outdoor adventures and activities be a whole lot more comfortable and enjoyable. If you live in an area that experiences a cold winter, investing in a solid pair of gloves can make all the difference.

Our goal here at Run Wild My Child is always to help you get your kids outside, no matter the weather. Because you know what they say: 

“There’s no such thing as bad weather–only bad clothing.”

About the author

Leslie is an Ohio farm girl and chaser of light, children, and sometimes chickens. She’s a lover of Jesus, wife to her high school sweetheart, and a homeschooling mom of four wild rascals who love the great outdoors as much as she does. As a family, they love hiking, camping, fishing, and just about any outdoor activity. She and her husband are just beginning the process of building a homestead from the ground up, doing most of the work themselves. Leslie has a lifelong obsession with writing and capturing everyday life from behind the lens. Follow along with their homesteading, homeschooling, and everyday adventures on her Instagram account.

You can find more from Leslie in the following locations:
Instagram: @c_l_allofus
Client work: @lalvisphotography
Leslie’s RWMC posts: Leslie Alvis

The post Gear Review: Best Kids’ Gloves and Mittens for Outdoor Play appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

*This post was sponsored by Vista Verde Ranch. All opinions expressed and photos contained herein belong to the author.

Vista Verde, a luxury guest ranch

Vista Verde offers the hospitality and charm of the Old West with the luxuries of an all-inclusive resort. We had the incredible opportunity to spend some time at Vista Verde earlier this month and had the most incredible experience. We were amazed by the beautiful location and fantastic facilities, the stellar culinary delights, and the wonderful activities program for kids and families. 

Sounds pretty unbelievable, right?  Well, that’s not even half of it. Let me show you around! 

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains

Vista Verde is a gorgeous luxury cowboy dude ranch nestled in the Colorado Rockies, just north of Steamboat Springs.  It backs up into a national forest and feels as if they carved out space for this gorgeous ranch, making it the most pristine location.  

From the minute you arrive, you will be blown away by gorgeous views of the Rocky Mountains and struck by the beauty of 100+ horses roaming throughout the property.  Cozy log cabins are scattered throughout the property, offering rustic charm and the feeling of alpine luxury comfort. I loved the wood-burning fireplace, spa robes, and local handmade soap. There were so many thoughtful details and amenities, which created a cozy and restful experience, even with vacationing with kids! We all know that a vacation with kids can be nearly anything but relaxing, so I was very impressed with how easy they made everything for us. 

Vista Verde has something for everyone

Vista Verde makes it easy to vacation as a family.  They really do have something for everyone, which makes it perfect for large families with lots of different ages and interests! With a large family, it’s sometimes tough to find activities that we all like, so the more options, the better. The kids’ program is designed for children 6 years and older and you can choose to do activities as a family or break apart for part of the day to give each family member the chance to do what they want to do.  We were so impressed with the attention to detail and careful planning that goes into making sure every family has a memorable experience.  

A winter dream come true

While Vista Verde Ranch is a spectacular place to visit any time of year, we found it to be especially MAGICAL in the winter.  We arrived on a snowy day and truly felt as if we stepped out into a winter wonderland.  As soon as we arrived we were greeted by a staff member who checked in with us every morning to ensure our day was planned for maximum adventuring.  They answered all our questions with patience, attended to our needs and requests, and made the whole experience easy for us. After a day of adventures, it was amazing to go back to our cabin and warm up by the cozy wood-burning fireplace.  

In the winter you can select from a wide range of activities such as skiing, ice fishing, massages, sleigh rides, snow tubing, snowmobiling, winter trail rides, yoga and so much more! The best part is that almost all activities were included as part of our all-inclusive experience! Amazing! 

The ranch is also an amazing place to rest and disconnect.  We enjoyed board games around the fire and truly enjoyed disconnecting as a family. I already know that the conversations we had as a family will be some of my favorites for years to come!

The Vista Verde horses

Vista Verde is a traditional dude ranch and home to over 100 beautiful horses.  Horseback riding through snow-covered trails was pure magic and an experience our family will treasure forever.  My kids described it as a scene from “Frozen”.  One of the activities offered through the kids’ program is a sleigh ride to feed the horses.

It was an unbelievable experience to ride through the horse ranch as 100 horses gathered for their nightly feed.  They were the most gentle and beautiful horses.  The work and love that goes into caring for this beautiful herd is evident and it makes for a wonderful experience. We loved waking up and greeting the horses each day on our way to breakfast in the mornings. It was a pretty special experience. 

So many activities!

Vista Verde had such a diverse program of activities! This is what sets Vista Verde apart from other ranches anywhere around. A carefully planned and wonderfully curated adventure program that is part of an all-inclusive experience is a dream come true for busy parents that are excited to get away, but don’t want to deal with the hassle of making all the arrangements for days upon days of activities.  The attention to detail and thoughtful planning really made our stay special. 

We opted for a family trail ride, ice fishing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and tubing as part of our stay.  But there are so many fabulous winter activities led by the friendliest guides, it was really hard to narrow it down and choose.  All the staff made us feel like part of the family and did the best job of taking amazing care of us. 

Ice fishing adventures

For our ice fishing excursion, our guide drove us out to a local lake.  We walked across the frozen lake and set up for an afternoon of ice fishing.  The staff was all so knowledgeable and excited to share their passion for the outdoors with all their guests.  

Sledding and snowmobiling

We also had the best time tubing down a magnificent mountain!  We were so surprised (and delighted) to be greeted by our guide in a snowmobile! He took us up the mountain and got us all set up for our trip down in our tubes. We went tubing all the way down and at the end of the run, we were taken back up to the top after every run in a snowmobile!  How cool is that! All the fun and way less work! This is perfect for kids that love action and adventure! 

A divine culinary experience

And if you think the activities look great, wait until I tell you about the food! Food is a celebration at Vista Verde Ranch!  The local chefs and staff made our experience so enjoyable! Every morning we woke up excited to head down to the guest house to enjoy our meals. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were each better than the next.  

The kids loved ordering a hot hearty breakfast, pancakes to their liking with extra blueberries, homemade bread, avocado toast and so much more.  Lunch was always a delight with amazing hot soups and crisp salads. We often had homemade dessert with lunch!  The dinners were amazing.  We even had the opportunity to enjoy a three-course meal on our own (just us parents!) while the kids enjoyed entertainment and dinner in the play center. That’s nearly unheard of when traveling as a family.

My husband and I enjoyed happy hour nightly, followed by a formal dinner complete with a delicious gourmet meal of scallops and short ribs.  These multi-course meals varied from casual to formal themes and they were all amazing! We celebrated with dessert every single night! We’ve never felt so spoiled! 

Adventure right out your doorstep

Vista Verde is the most amazing place for an unforgettable winter family vacation.  It offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure, luxury relaxation, and culinary excellence for the entire family.  It was truly one of the best and most memorable vacations we have ever been on and we will be talking about this trip for years to come! 

No matter what your interests, Vista Verde has something for everyone in your family and will treat you like royalty.  I guarantee your kids will leave in tears and beg never to leave. Mine did! We are already planning our next visit and can’t wait to get back. 

Vista Verde Ranch

For more information on Vista Verde Ranch, here’s where you can find them online:

Website: www.vistaverde.com
Instagram: @vistaverderanch
Facebook: Vista Verde Ranch

Phone: 800-526-7433

Address:
PO Box 770465
Steamboat Springs, CO 80477

What outdoor activity would you be the most interested in doing at Vista Verde?

About the author

Araceli is a wife and momma to three wild and adventurous littles. She believes that nature and free play are truly the foundation of a beautiful childhood. Araceli and her husband have made it a priority to raise their children with a strong bond to the great outdoors. Araceli is a working mom with an extensive career in Project Management. She’s creative, crafty, and loves collecting houseplants. As a family, they love exploring wild places and she loves documenting their adventures.

Find more from Araceli in the following locations:
Instagram: @roaminggonzalez
All RWMC posts: Araceli 

The post Family Travel: Vista Verde Ranch, Colorado appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

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Indoor snow day activities for kids

It’s no surprise that we’re hoping your kids get outside and play in the snow on any snow day. This entire website is about getting kids outside and off screens. However, we are also parents and we know that it’s not always possible for kids to be outside all day, every day. So, when they’re in the house, we want to help you with fun screen-free snow day activities to keep them entertained and active. We hope these snow day activities will help inspire you to get creative on your next snow day and be prepared for any “I’m bored” complaint that comes your way! 

Image credit: mylittlewildlings.com

1. Hot chocolate bar

What goes better with a cold snow day than hot chocolate?! After spending time outside playing, hot chocolate is the perfect drink to warm you up, head to toe. Get a little creative with your hot chocolate and set up a station for the kids to make their own. Include marshmallows, leftover candy canes, whipped cream, sprinkles, chocolate chips, cinnamon, or whatever else you can find in the pantry! 

2. Make an obstacle course

A fun way to make the most of an indoor snow day is to build an obstacle course for the kids.  An obstacle course around the house or the basement will provide endless hours of fun and challenge them. Plus, it will help them stay active and test their creativity. We like to set up obstacle courses around our basement with stations, where you have to complete a challenge before moving on. We incorporate furniture, pillows, blankets, cushions, toys and anything else we can find a good use for. The kids have to climb over, under and through the obstacles. Some of the challenges include spinning around 5 times, doing a somersault, doing jumping jacks or pushups, shooting a basket, doing a handstand, hitting a target, or jumping rope. 

Image credit: @sara_mccarty

3. Snow ice cream

The perfect snow day is not complete without snow ice cream! With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn ordinary snow into something extraordinarily delicious! Snow ice cream is always a huge crowd pleaser at our house and can be made with things we already have at home. Just take some freshly fallen snow and combine it with milk (or cream). Add a smidge of vanilla and a couple of spoonfuls of sugar. Voila! Top with sprinkles or chocolate sauce for some extra fun!

4. Treasure hunt

Treasure hunts are always a fun idea and a great way to keep the kids occupied and entertained. We like to select one item and then hide it in various places around the house (or within a room) and they have to find it. My kids can play this game over and over and over. You can be involved and give them “hot” or “cold” clues or just let them figure it out on their own. Or, if you want to get really creative, you could hide something and give them a series of clues or draw a map for them to use to find it. Or make it a scavenger hunt and give them a list of items that they need to find to win the game. 

Image credit: @dimples.and.the.blonde

5. Board games

If you’re looking for something fun for the entire family, break out a board game (or “bored game” as my kids call them) for a fun family-friendly indoor activity. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a game with an actual board (Candy Land, Life, Monopoly, Shoots & Ladders, Sorry) or just a fun card game (Uno, Exploding Kittens, Apples to Apples, Go Fish, Old Maid). Kids love games, particularly if there’s a prize on the line. Winner gets to pick dessert! 

6. Friendship bracelets

Making friendship bracelets was one of my favorite indoor childhood activities. I went through a period of years of making elaborate bracelets for all my friends and family members. It’s something I can’t wait to teach my kids to do (hopefully soon). All you really need is some thread and some patience. Here’s an easy-to-follow tutorial on how to make friendship bracelets with helpful photos, but there are also probably a million resources out there if you have questions or want to get extra creative with your masterpieces. 

Image credit: @thimbleandtwig

7. Build an indoor fort

There are very few things my kids love more than a good fort. After years of helping them, they’ve finally become master fort builders themselves and can erect an elaborate fort all the way around the couch (with rooms and secret tunnels) in about an hour. It’s a great way for them to play independently and forces them to get creative. Offer pillows, cushions, sheets, chairs, clips and anything that might help and let them give it a shot. And building the fort is only half the fun. A lot of the time, they’ll play in the fort for the rest of the day! 

8. Indoor campout

Who says camping has to be just for outside? If you’ve got the room, set up your tent inside the house and let the kids have an indoor campout. Set up their sleeping bags, add some twinkle lights or a lantern and let their imaginations take them to their favorite camping locations. Have a meal of camping classics like hot dogs, kabobs, or foil packets. Make microwave s’mores! Before hitting the sack, give them flashlights and let them read books or tell ghost stories in the tent. And for bonus points for being the “coolest mom ever,” let them sleep there overnight! 

Image credit: hodgepodgedays.co.uk

9. Make butter

If you want to wow your kids, burn some energy and show them a little classic science, making homemade butter will blow their minds! Making homemade butter is so simple (and so delicious) that you may never buy butter again! All you need is some heavy whipping cream and a Mason jar with a lid. Fill the jar about halfway with cream (leave lots of room) and tighten the lid. Now hand it off to your kids and let them take turns shaking the jar as fast and hard as they can. After about 10 minutes you’ll have whipped cream! But keep going! After a few more minutes, you’ll notice when the cream turns solid and you now have butter! Keep shaking until the butter is solid and separated from the buttermilk. It’s that easy! If you want to get extra fancy, add some special ingredients to make flavored butter (garlic/herbs, cinnamon sugar, honey, etc.). Serve with fresh bread, blueberry muffins, pumpkin bread, or English muffins. 

10. Marshmallow tower

Building marshmallow towers can be a really fun indoor snow day activity for any kid or an effective team-building activity for siblings. All you need is a bag of marshmallows and some spaghetti and then let the kids get creative. They have to stick the spaghetti into the marshmallows to create a tower that won’t topple over. Make it more interesting by setting a timer and challenging your kids to make the tallest tower. 

Image credit: @sara_mccarty

11. Decorate with snowflakes

Bring a little of the winter wonderland magic indoors by cutting out and decorating your own snowflakes. There are so many possible ways to make snowflakes with paper and scissors.  I like to show the kids once how to do this by folding the paper in some random weird way and cutting out various shapes along the folds. I’m always surprised by what it looks like when I open it up! Then I let them take over and do it their way. If you want inspiration, this post includes a great visual on how to fold the paper and make the cuts for different (and beautiful) designs. You could also use coffee filters and decorate them with watercolor paints or markers for colorful snowflakes!

12. Photobooth

Want some adorable photos from your snow day to help document and remember the fun and madness? Take some silly photos in a photo booth! Setting up a photo booth is really simple. You can use your camera, but you can also just set up your phone or an iPad for the kids to use. If you have a tripod or a stand, that’s great, but you can also use books or binder clips to prop it up. Have the kids get fancy in dress-up clothes or break out old Halloween costumes. Let them play with costume jewelry or silly accessories (sunglasses, hats, scarves, etc.). The photos will be worth the mess! 

Image credit: @sara_mccarty

13. Slime

Making slime is totally the “cool mom” thing to do with kids these days! My kids are obsessed with slime and ask to make it on the daily. Very rarely do I agree (I’m obviously not the cool mom), but when we do make slime, it’s hours of entertainment. We like this easy slime recipe: 6 oz (1 bottle) of Elmer’s Glue, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1.5 tablespoons of contact lens solution, and some water. Pour the glue into a bowl, add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and mix in thoroughly. Next, add up to 1/4 cup of water if you want stretchy slime. Slowly add the contact lens solution (a little at a time) as you knead the slime. Keep kneading until you get the consistency you want, it may take a while (and you may not need all the solution). Add glitter or food coloring if you want to get fancy! 

14. Balloon tennis

Another fun, active and easy indoor snow day activity for kids is to play balloon tennis. For this, all you need is a balloon (for the ball) and a couple of frisbees or even paper plates (to be the rackets). Make a line for the court and let the kids try volleying the balloon back and forth without touching the ground. 

Image credit: @thimbleandtwig

15. Minute to win it games

Kids love a challenge and they love watching their parents be silly. Minute to win it games are a great family bonding experience when you’re stuck inside on a snow day. Most of these games can be played with stuff found around the house and are easy to set up. There are tons of ways to adapt the game for the various ages and skill levels of your children. Here’s a great list of family minute to win it games. A few of our favorites are cookie face, penny towers, noodle pickup and pantyhose bowling. Be prepared for LOTS of laughter with these! 

16. Snow play dough or DIY snow

White playdough is surprisingly easy to make and so much fun for kids! All you need is 2 cups of corn starch and 1  1/4  cup of unscented white hand lotion or conditioner. Mix them together in a bowl and you’ve got a moisturizing dough that’s fun to mold. Add some silver glitter if you really want to get fancy. Have your kids make indoor snowmen and decorate them with items they find around the house (buttons, sequins, ribbon, etc.). Kids love this fully hands-on sensory activity.

Or, you can also make your own sensory bin of DIY snow. We’ve got a great post with three DIY snow recipes to make with your kids from ingredients you already have at home! 

Image credit: refinedprose.com

17. Story stones

Story stones help build imagination and storytelling skills. By using the stone with a picture on it, children can create a story or retell an adventure. Story stones are easy to make and would be a perfect indoor snow day activity for kids. There are a variety of story-telling games you can play. If you have a group, place all the stones in a bag and let each child pick a stone, then go around the circle and have each child build on the story by adding something about the stone they picked. We love these graphics and story prompts from Little Pine Learners, which allow your kids to be part of the process, from creation to story.

18. Animal charades

A game of animal charades is such a fun way to get kids moving and using their imagination! Kids of all ages like pretending and even little kids know animal sounds and characteristics. Usually, charades is played silently, without using words or sounds, but you can always adapt the game depending on the age of the kids and their charade skill level. Toddlers and preschoolers may really enjoy making the animal sounds! Here’s a great free animal charades printable that you can use to help you choose the animals. 

Image credit: @sara_mccarty

19. Puppet show

Another fun indoor activity to do with kids is to put on a puppet show! You can make puppets with materials from your recycling bin. Or, you could make sock puppets from all those single socks you have lying around! Or you could use stuffed animals and dolls you already have at home. Help the kids come up with an idea for what the show will be about and then let their creativity shine!  This is also an amazing activity to share with family and friends on FaceTime or other video chatting app. You don’t have to leave your house and you can bring some joy to others in isolation from a safe distance!

20. Make sugar cookies

Most kids absolutely love helping out in the kitchen. Especially so if they’re making sweet treats. If you want to have a little fun in the kitchen on a snow day, how about making a batch of sugar cookies. We love this delicious sugar cookie recipe that doesn’t require any rolling out or cookie cutters (although, those are fun, too). Double the batch and make extras for the neighbors! 

If cookies aren’t your thing, here are a whole bunch of other tried-and-true great recipes to make with kids from our Creative Team. 

Image credit: @thimbleandtwig

21. Spa day

I think we could all use a little extra pampering and self-care these days, even kids. If you’re stuck inside during bad weather or need a fun indoor snow day activity, consider having a spa day with your kids. Start with a warm luxurious bubble bath. Use all the fancy bubbles and soaps. When you get out, put on a robe and wrap your hair in a towel. Move on from there to a facial. You can make a natural face mask out of avocado, oatmeal, or honey. You may also use one you already have at home. Cut up some cucumbers they can use while their masks set to help rest their tired eyes.  Next up, manicures and pedicures. Let the kids pick their nail colors and get as creative as they want. 

22. Ghost mud

If snow’s not your thing, how about mud? Clean mud! To make ghost mud, all you need is a bar of Ivory soap, a roll of toilet paper, and a cup of warm water. Let your kids have fun removing all the toilet paper from the roll. This is a great indoor activity in and of itself! Gather it up and put it in a large container. Then add the soap – you can either grate it or do the soap explosion experiment where you microwave it! Then add the warm water and have the kids work the mush into mud! Check out this post for the full ghost mud tutorial. 

Image credit: @brandimarkham

23. Indoor picnic or tea party

Make mealtime a little more fun on a snow day by having an indoor picnic or an indoor tea party. Move some furniture out of the way and spread out a blanket or a tablecloth on the floor. Give the kids fun picnic-like finger foods and snacks like fruit kabobs, sandwiches, chips, and lemonade. Let them help in the process and have a say in what they make. Set everything up with paper plates for easy clean-up. Turn on some music and have a relaxing meal. Just make sure to put lids on drinks!

24. Make taffy

Did you ever make taffy as a kid? My cousins and I used to make taffy every summer and loved it! It can be a little messy, but it’s super fun and your kids will love how interactive and involved the process is. There’s a lot of taffy pulling, kneading, and stretching involved, so little ones can get some energy out while they make it. Here’s a great kid-friendly taffy recipe and a step-by-step tutorial on how to make taffy with kids. 

Image credit: @sara_mccarty

25. Fashion show

My daughter loves any excuse to raid my closet and try on all my shoes and jewelry. And all the kids love costumes. Give the kids permission to play dress-up by having them put on a fashion show. Let them select their own outfits and do their own hair (and make-up, if you’re feeling extra brave). Then let them walk the runway to fun music fanfare and applause. Grab your camera and play the part of paparazzi to your little supermodels. 

26. Indoor snowball fight

If you’re not able to get outside for a “real” snowball fight, you can safely bring it inside! You can purchase soft indoor snowballs or just do it the old-fashioned way by using balled-up socks. Divide up into teams and dump half of the snowballs on each side of the room. Instruct the teams that the goal is to have the least number of snowballs in your area at the end of 5 minutes. Snowballs can only be thrown, not kicked and they can only throw one at a time. Then let them go wild! 

Image credit: @sara_mccarty

27. Make bird feeders

There are TONS of ways to DIY a bird feeder using eco-friendly and recycled materials. We’ve made bird feeders using recycled toilet paper tubes, popsicle sticks, orange peels, twine, pine cones and sweet gum balls! A really easy way is to coat your materials in peanut butter and then dip in birdseed. We have a great post on making ec0-friendly bird feeders with kids using materials you already have at home! When you’re ready to venture out into the snow, the birds are going to be especially grateful for the treats! 

Image credit: @brandimarkham

28. Racecar track with tape

I’ve always been impressed with how many things I can do with a roll of tape! If you’ve got a few rolls of masking tape lying around, you’re in for hours of fun. We love this idea to create a race track using masking tape for your cars around the house or around a room. Not only will it be fun to come up with the course, obstacles, and challenges, but then racing the cars will be a blast! 

Image credit: @thimbleandtwig

29. Read a book

In my opinion, nothing sounds better to me on a cold snowy day than snuggling under a blanket and reading a good book. You don’t need any kind of fancy reading nook or window seat (although that sounds nice). A couch, oversized chair or bed will work fine. Snuggle up together and read something exciting together with the kids. Even if your kids are old enough to read on their own, they love being read to. So, grab a book (here are some great read-aloud book ideas) and dive in! 

Image credit: @sara_mccarty

30. Dance party

Crank up the music and dance the winter blues away! If you’re stuck inside on a snow day, a dance party is a great way to have some fun, burn some energy, and show off your smooth moves. Let all the kids have a turn choosing the songs or let your system shuffle music from your favorites. Make it extra fun by adding some instruments (even fake/imaginary ones like an air guitar) or costumes. 

Outdoor snow day activities for kids

Playing in the snow is so much fun! It provides a fabulous sensory experience for all those who are lucky enough to enjoy it. We’re all about getting kids outside, no matter the weather. We hope that you’ll send your kids outside to play in the snow as much as possible on their next snow day. And if they’re in need of some fun snow day activities and ideas, we’ve got tons! This list should help you get through an entire winter of snow days! 

Image credit: @roaminggonzalez

31. Sledding

Sledding has become a beloved winter activity for our family. Especially as my kids get older, they really love the speed and thrill of how much fun they can have on an otherwise normal hill. However, as with every fun activity, especially when children are involved, it’s important to be safe, as well as have fun. Find a hill that is not too steep and has a long flat area at the bottom so there is a place to glide to a stop. Avoid hills that end near a street or parking lot or near ponds, trees, fences, or other hazards. And don’t underestimate the fun of even a small hill. As kids get older, they may want a bigger and longer hill for sledding, but don’t be afraid to start small and see how it goes. My kids can have hours of fun on the tiniest of hills!

Photo credit: @this_gr8_kozi_life_

32. Snowman building

Building a snowman is a classic wintertime childhood activity that is a blast for kids of all ages. Give your snowman the perfect proportions by aiming for a 3-2-1 snowball ratio (for example, if the lowest ball has a diameter of three feet, the middle ball would be two feet, and the top ball would be one foot). Also consider that the lower to the ground your snowman is, the more stable he will be.

Just because building a snowman is a classic activity doesn’t mean you can’t use nontraditional decorations. Let your kids give your snowman (or snowwoman) some personality. Give him a funky cap or an ugly Christmas sweater. Give her a grass skirt and Hawaiian shirt to wear. And no one said your snowman had to be a man. Make a snowwoman, a snowdog or snowcat, a snowtiger, or an entire snowfamily! Add some extra fun with snow paint (food coloring and water in a squirt bottle) to give your snow character clothes or stripes or just have some extra fun.

33. Snow maze

If you have a large wide-open space with nice untouched snow, consider making a snow maze for the kids. You can shovel the maze out, or just walk through to pack down the snow in lines, with turns, dead-ends, and loops. Depending on the ages of your kids, you may want to make it harder or easier to find their way through the maze. Kids will love trying to figure out where to go and how to get through with the fastest time. 

Image credit: @sara_mccarty

34. Snowball fight

Snowball fights are such a fun way to get the kids outside, active and burning through some of that snow day energy. Older kids tend to do better with snowball fights, but even little kids love making and throwing snowballs. Snowball fights are usually about nailing a member of the other team with a snowball, so make sure to talk to the kids about proper snowball fight etiquette (no throwing at the face, no ice or rocks in snowballs, etc.). If you don’t want to throw them at each other, you could have a competition to see who can throw them the farthest or who can make the most snowballs the fastest. 

35. Look for animal tracks

Winter is a great time to head out to the woods (or even your local park) and see if you can find animal tracks. Fresh snow is great for showing tracks of various woodland animals. Examples include rabbits, foxes, deer, and squirrels. Make it a game and see who can spot the most tracks, the biggest, the smallest and the most exotic. Try to guess what animal made them, where they were going and what they were doing. Don’t recognize the tracks? Take photos of the tracks and look them up when you get home to see what animal made them.

36. Snowball target practice

My kids love to use snowballs for target practice! Set up or choose a target and see who can get closest to the bullseye with snowballs. You can do this horizontally (place a target on a wall or choose a location on a tree to throw at) or vertically (set a bucket or item on the ground and throw the snowballs up into the air to see if you can get them to land in the bucket). 

37. Ice experiments

Turning water into ice sounds simple enough, but in the winter, it’s a great educational science experiment. Water freezes at 0 degrees Celcius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Use your snow day to get in a science experiment by challenging your kids to see how long it takes water to freeze into ice. Try freezing water in various locations around your yard or neighborhood to see if that makes a difference. What about using different containers? On a super cold day, we’ve heard of people throwing a cup of water into the air and watching it freeze instantly!

Image credit: @ladybirdsadventures

38. Snow painting

Add some color to your snowy landscape with snow paint. All you need is water and food coloring. Put it in a spray bottle and let the kids turn the snow colors and make designs. You can also give them a paintbrush and let them color snowballs or paint pictures in the snow. 

39. Ice lanterns

Ice lanterns are made by using molds to freeze ice into candle holders. You can put them outside to light your walkway, or on your front porch to welcome guests. If you add a handle, you could even take them on a night walk/hike around the neighborhood. Our friends over at Take Them Outside have a great tutorial on how to make ice lanterns with kids. 

Image credit: littlebinsforlittlehands.com

40. Ice globes

Add some magic and fun to your outdoor snowy space by making colored ice globes. All you need to do is add a few drops of food coloring to the water in a water balloon and let them freeze (either outside or in the freezer). Once frozen, pop the balloon, and you’re left with a beautiful ice globe in your color of choice. Take them outside to decorate or play with. 

41. Snow cakes for the animals

Everyone loves cake…even animals! But while deer, squirrels and birds probably shouldn’t be eating cakes made from sugar and flour, they can eat cakes made of snow, fruits, and veggies for the animals! Head out to a field or choose a spot near the woods where animals will be sure to find it. Use the snow to make a big cake on the ground and decorate it with birdseed, carrots, apples, lettuce and other fruits and vegetables. The animals will be grateful for your generosity.

42. Frozen suncatchers

Suncatchers made from ice are not only beautiful but super easy to make! Spend some time outside gathering natural items to use in your suncatchers. The more colorful the better. Examples: branches, berries, twigs, flowers, buds, and leaves. Lay out a plastic lid, paper plate, cups, muffin tin, pie plate or silicone mold to use as the mold for your suncatcher. Fill the mold with water and add your natural elements to the water in any design of your choosing. Leave outside for a few hours or overnight to freeze. Gently remove the ice suncatcher from the mold and hang it from a tree branch or window sill. Pro tip: Rumor has it that if you want your ice to be crystal clear, boil the water first! For a full tutorial, check out our post on how to make frozen ice suncatchers.

Image credit: @stephanie.b.collins

43. Winter mandala

In its simplest form, a mandala is a circular structure with a design that radiates out symmetrically from the center. There is no right or wrong way to make one which is why it is such a wonderful way to engage children to make their own mandalas using items they find in nature. Go for a walk or hike and collect items to use in your winter mandala. Choose a location to start making it directly on the ground, with a snowy white background. Let the children’s imaginations create something beautiful! This is a great time to discuss symmetry and shapes, but don’t push them too hard to stick to any hard and fast rules. Creativity wins the day. We’ve got a great post on making nature mandalas with kids if you want to read more about this fun activity.

44. DIY yeti tracks

After you’ve found animal tracks in the snow, why not have some fun creating some of your own! Use heavy cardboard to create oversized yeti footprints. Cut the feet out and attach them to the bottoms of your kids’ snow boots. Head outside and let them create their own yeti tracks in the snow. Create a trail around the yard or neighborhood for others to track. Your kids might be surprised by how they can seem to walk on top of the snow. With a larger surface area, they will sink less, giving walking on snow a whole new feel.

Image credit: @roaminggonzalez

45. Build a snow fort/igloo

There are so many fun things you can do in the snow, but building a fort has to be up there at the very top of awesome winter outdoor activities! Last year my kids built an amazing igloo (with dad’s help) that they played in for hours and hours over the course of a few weeks (until it melted). They were so incredibly proud of their igloo and had so much fun building it! Always be extra careful not to make it too heavy on top, and make sure kids have proper adult supervision.

Image credit: @coleyraeh

46. Maple candy

Have you ever tried or made maple candy? All you need to make this delicious treat is some pure maple syrup and snow! You’ll need to help your little ones, though, as you first have to heat the syrup before pouring it hot into the snow to solidify. Grown-up supervision is a must. For the full set of directions, check out this awesome maple syrup snow candy post from our friends at Little Bins for Little Hands.

Image credit: @sage.and.summit

47. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is essentially winter hiking over the snow. You need special snowshoes to do this, but they’re not expensive and can even be rented very cheaply in many places. Snowshoeing is a great way to get the whole family outside together for fresh air and exercise. We’ve got a great beginner’s guide to snowshoeing with kids to help you get started with this fun family snow day activity. 

Photo credit: @the.meadow.house

48. Ice skating

A snow day is the perfect time to try ice skating – particularly at an outdoor rink. There’s something magical about skating outside when it’s frosty cold. Most rinks have rental skates for kids as young as two, along with buckets or rails for little kids to hold onto. If your kids are little, we also recommend wearing a bike helmet and super thick gloves to protect kids’ heads and fingers.

Image credit: @thereluctantexplorers

49. Freezing bubbles

Blowing a bubble and watching it turn to ice is such a fascinating activity. If it’s super cold outside (below freezing), try making frozen bubbles! This is a great science experiment for kids in freezing temperatures. It might take a few different attempts to get a bubble to freeze, depending on time, sunlight, what the bubble lands on and bubble solution. Check out our full post on making frozen bubbles, which has tips and a great homemade solution that works! You may want to chill the bubble solution in the fridge or freezer before using it outside, to help with the freezing process. And if your breath is too warm, try waving the wand to make the bubbles instead. 

50. Frozen clothes

Freezing and posing clothing seems to be all the rage right now! It’s such a simple and silly way to have some fun with your kids. All you need to do is soak some clothing in water and then set outside to freeze. Then, reshape the clothing to look like it’s being worn and stand it up in the yard! Set up a whole scene and astonish the neighbors! 

Image credit: @destinationmommy

51. Snow tic-tac-toe

Playing tic-tac-toe outside in the winter is so much fun for kids. There are a variety of ways you can set up a game outdoors. Use 4 large sticks to create a board on the snowy ground and then use colored water in spray bottles to designate your X or O marking. Or use pinecones, leaves or rocks for Os and 2 sticks to make Xs. 

52. Eat an icicle

Icicles are nature-made popsicles, just hanging there ready for a lick! Let kids be kids and give them the chance to taste an icicle this winter. The next time you have a snow day, go on a hunt for icicles. Be careful getting them down, as they can be very sharp. For extra awesomeness, dip it in sugar!

Image credit: @ashleeboonephotography

53. Snow day picnic

When it’s warm outside, we practically eat every meal outdoors on our back patio. Why should winter stop us from enjoying delicious food with a side of fresh air and snow? Use your snow day to spend a little extra time outside and host a winter picnic for your kids. We recommend serving warm and savory non-messy and easy-to-eat foods, if possible. Fill a thermos with vegetable soup, chicken noodle soup, chili, stew, lentil soup, ramen, or macaroni & cheese. If you’re not using your thermos for food, use it for drinks like hot chocolate, hot tea, or warm apple cider. If you don’t feel like taking a whole meal outside, let them eat a special treat outside like donuts or cookies. 

54. Snow angels

Making snow angels is a quintessential snow day childhood outdoor activity. This activity needs no real explanation or instruction, but there are a few things you can do to make it more fun for kids. After the kids make the snow angel, let them decorate them! It’s really funny to see hollow snow angels on the ground with pinecones for eyes, sticks for hair, and a red berry mouth!

Image credit: @thevacationcastleguy

55. Snow castles

Sandcastles are all the rage in the summer, but building snow castles on a snow day can be just as much fun! Get out your sandcastle-building equipment (cups, bowls, shovels, etc.) and do the same in the snow! Create elaborate castles with moats and leaf flags. Bring out the army men, Barbies, or characters and make an entire town. Add some colored water to give it a whole new look! There are so many fun things to build in the snow.

Image credit: @stephanieruff.lifestories

56. Study snowflakes

There’s nothing more magical in the wintertime than snowflakes! If you’ve ever seen photos of individual snowflakes up close, you know just how truly miraculous and incredible they are. Take some time this winter to study snowflakes with your kids. Talk about how snowflakes are formed, how/why they’re similar, but all unique. Use a piece of black felt to try to catch falling snowflakes to observe and see if you can even photograph them.

Image credit: @destinationmommy

57. Snow kitchen

Snow day activities should be fun and creative. Make good use of that mud kitchen in the winter by using it as a snow kitchen! Let your kids play with some mixing bowls, utensils, and pie pans to make all kinds of snow delicacies. Snow cakes and snow pies, sundaes, and snowshakes. Let the kids decorate their creations with twigs, leaves, and pebbles (or whatever natural materials they can find outside).

Image credit: @sara_mccarty

58. Acts of kindness

Snow day activities are a great time to consider doing some acts of kindness for others, particularly those that can’t get around well outside in the snow and ice. If you have kids old enough to help, shovel the sidewalk or driveway of an elderly neighbor or new parents. Salt local walkways or paths. Scrape off windshields or help clear paths for delivery drivers. They’re all guaranteed to appreciate the kindness. 

Want more ideas? Here are 20+ ways to be kind to nature and outdoor acts of kindness for kids. 

59. Outdoor hot chocolate stand

You’ve heard of lemonade stands in the summer, so why not a hot chocolate stand in the winter? This is one of our most clever snow day activities for kids. Get your kids into the entrepreneurial spirit by letting them set up and host a hot chocolate stand. There probably won’t be a lot of traffic out and about on a snow day, so invite nearby friends and neighbors to participate. This type of activity is great for teaching kids about hard work, customer service, counting money, etc. 

60. Ice bricks

Most educational resources will tell you how important it is for kids to learn how to play with simple blocks and stacking bricks. We definitely agree, but we want to put our own twist on it by taking it outside! And in the winter, why not make ice bricks for building for an even more enjoyable experience. All you need to do for this snow day activity is freeze water in various size containers. Make small blocks using ice cube trays and larger ones using Tupperware. Add a few drops of food coloring to the water to make colored ice blocks. Pop them all out of their containers on the ice-cold sidewalk and let the kids get creative!

61. Ice bowling

Keep your kids outside and occupied for hours with ice bowling! All you need are 10 water bottles and a balloon. Fill all the water bottles with colored water and place them outside or in the freezer to freeze solid. Leave room at the top or leave the lid off to give the water room to expand as it freezes so it doesn’t distort the bottom of the bottle, keeping them from standing upright on a flat surface. Fill a round balloon with water and freeze to make a round bowing ice ball. Once it’s all frozen solid, take outside and set up a bowling lane! The bottles are the pins and the ice water balloon is the ball. Teach your kids how to keep score and it becomes an educational math activity as well!

Image credit: typicalmummy.co.uk

62. Snow tree faces

You may have heard of making mud faces on trees…this is same, but only with snow! For this fun snow day activity, all you have to do is pack some snow on the side of a tree trunk and then mold it into a funny face. You can add rocks, leaves, sticks or berries to make facial features. 

Image credit: @my.homespun.life

63. Outdoor hot tub

Who says you can’t swim outside in the winter?! If you have the opportunity, let your kids experience the fun of “swimming” (or soaking) in an outdoor hot tub on your next snow day. Hot tubing is a great snow day activity for kids. There’s something really special about being enveloped in warm water while it’s snowy and cold outside. The contrast is invigorating! You don’t need an actual hot tub, you can make your own! Fill a big bucket, tub, or kiddie pool with warm water and let the littles soak. But as always, use caution and adult supervision. Kids shouldn’t spend very much time in hot tubs at the risk of overheating their small bodies.

Photo credit: @maakitude

64. Skiing/snowboarding

Take advantage of the fresh powder and hit the slopes on a snow day. Skiing and snowboarding with kids is incredibly exhausting, but so much fun! Pack up your gear and head for the hills to take advantage of all the fun the winter has to offer. If your kids are new to skiing, we highly recommend you read our beginner’s guide to downhill skiing with kids. Or get the kids a lesson or ski school before hitting the slopes. Instructors are usually really great with kids and teach them in a way that’s fun and easy to understand. Once they’ve gotten the hang of it, they can show off their new skills with you.

What are your child’s favorite snow day activities?
What do you like to do on a snow day outside?
What are the best indoor snow day activities?

The post 60+ Indoor & Outdoor Snow Day Activities for Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

How to get started snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is an amazing way to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the winter months. As a beginner, it can be hard to know where to start. I have taken countless friends snowshoeing for their first time, and I will tell you that every one of them was nervous and intimidated before we stepped foot on the snow. Also, by the end of the afternoon, every one of them was saying “Wow, that was so easy, fun, and beautiful!” 

Snowshoeing is one of our family’s favorite activities. It’s a relatively easy sport to pick up, even for kids, and requires no prior experience or training. Everyone who is able and willing to snowshoe can and should, no matter their age! It is a great way to get the kids outside and hike through pristine powder snow. Today, I will be giving tips and tricks so you’ll feel confident to start snowshoeing with kids. Everything you need to get started; minus the information about your local area. 

What is snowshoeing?

Let’s start with the question some of you may be asking…”What is snowshoeing?” Basically, snowshoeing is a type of hiking that involves walking over or on top of the snow with the assistance of footwear that displaces your weight over a larger area (so you don’t sink). With origins roughly 4,000 to 6,000 years ago, snowshoeing has played a vital role in remote mountain survival, with trappers and traders utilizing snowshoes to traverse the inaccessible regions of the wilderness. What started thousands of years ago as an essential mode of winter transportation has evolved into a popular recreational activity.

Snowshoeing is a great way to start enjoying winter!

Benefits of snowshoeing

There are so many great benefits of snowshoeing for kids. One of the best things about snowshoeing is that you and your children will get a great workout (you’re more likely to be warm than cold while snowshoeing). Snowshoeing is a wonderful way to get your body moving and work on those big gross motor skills. Snowshoeing is an excellent low-impact aerobic exercise and works muscles that kids may not otherwise exercise at home.

Also, snowshoeing is a relatively quiet and peaceful activity. You can easily talk to your children or friends or listen to the sounds of nature (birds, running water, etc.). It’s a wonderful way to bond with the kids and talk about their day or challenges. It allows you to get out of your own head and let nature clear away your thoughts and worries. Snowshoeing can be therapeutic! 

Speaking of talking, it’s a great social activity to do with friends and family. Adults, kids of all ages and ability levels can enjoy snowshoeing together. For families that love hiking together, snowshoeing lets you extend your hiking season through the year and lets you enjoy solitude in areas that might be crowded in summer. In general, there are way fewer people venturing outdoors in the winter, so it’s easy to find an area for a peaceful snowshoe adventure. 

Snowshoeing is also easy to learn and inexpensive to try. If gear and lift-ticket prices for skiing or snowboarding give you pause, you’ll be happy to know that snowshoeing is affordably priced. Your required gear includes snowshoes (see below for more on this) and appropriate outdoor winter attire. Poles are recommended, but not required. 

Good for kids of all ages

Individuals of any age and ability can go snowshoeing. Your outing can be tailored to match your interests and fitness levels, making this a great way to get outside as a family and have fun together (big and little kids alike). Snowshoe outings can be anything from a leisurely walk in the park, a casual outing to explore nature, or a steep and difficult backcountry hike!

Waterproof boots and snowshoes with a simple strap are important.

Where to find snowshoes

If you want to give snowshoeing a try, the first thing you’ll need to do is locate some snowshoes. Snowshoes are basically large flat “shoes” that distribute your weight over the surface of the snow so that you can walk (or float) over it. The design of the snowshoe is to deter snow accumulation and allow for optimal maneuverability. You may remember seeing cartoons with large wood frames with lattice (that look like a giant tennis racket). But today’s snowshoes have evolved to use durable lightweight metals, plastics and synthetic fibers.

For your first time, I’d recommend either borrowing snowshoes from a friend or renting them for the day. Snowshoe rentals are available at most REI stores, or local sporting good stores as well as a lot of ski resorts for a small fee. For example, our local REI rents children’s snowshoes for $8 per day. 

After your initial snowshoeing excursion or two, it is likely you’ll want to invest in some snowshoes of your own, and some for your kids. I’ve listed the equipment we use,  love and recommend near the end of this post. Some things to look for are simple but secure straps (that eventually the kids can put on and remove on their own), and good grip on the bottom, for secure footing in slippery and deep snow. 

How to dress for snowshoeing 

How you dress for any winter activity will make or break your day. And with kids involved, I like to minimize the risk of them being uncomfortable. If they stay warm and have fun, it is more likely they will want to go out snowshoeing again and again. Which, in turn, will make your winter so much more enjoyable. The easiest way to dress for snowshoeing is basically to dress the same way you would to go sledding. At the end of this article, I’ve listed recommendations for the gear we have been using for years. 

• Start with a base layer – The best base layers are wool or synthetic material. Also known as long-johns! This layer is temperature regulating and wicks moisture. Nice warm wool socks are a great investment for winter activities. 
• Add a mid-layer – This is your insulating layer ~ think a fleece, sweater, or even a down vest. 
• Finally, add an outer layer – Snowsuits (or snow pants and a winter coat), mittens (waterproof), and a good hat. The best outer layers are waterproof! We love our Reima snowsuits. 
• Snowboots – Again, start with a waterproof option, or at least a boot with a waterproof base (a lot of boots will be waterproof just over the foot area, but not up to the calf.) 
• Sunscreen and sunglasses – Sunscreen in winter might seem weird, however, the sun is hitting you from the top and also reflecting off of the snow, so double whammy. The good news is that usually only their little face is showing under their winter gear, so it will only take a few seconds to rub some sunscreen on. We love All Good Sunscreen. 

Investing in warm winter clothing will determine whether you and your children enjoy winter…or dread it. I, for one, choose the first option. Life is better outside! 

Bring a sled and your furry friends as an added bonus! Make snowshoeing even more fun!

How to snowshoe with kids

Now comes the important part…how to snowshoe with kids! The good news is, that if you can walk, you can snowshoe! It’s about that easy! Have you ever tried walking in snorkel fins? Walking in snowshoes may feel similar to that at first. You’ll need to take bigger steps, and lift your knees higher than you normally do. Your heel will be mobile though (it’s not strapped down), so really, it’s much easier than snorkel fins! 

Starting on a packed-down trail will be easier than starting in deep snow. Many winter areas have cross-country ski and snowshoe trails that are relatively flat and very easy for beginners to get started. Your stride should be wider than it is for hiking in order to avoid stepping on the insides of your snowshoe frames. Because of that, you may find your hips and groin muscles aching a bit after the first few times you snowshoe, but those muscles will get stronger quickly and you won’t notice it so much after a few outings. 

Where to go snowshoeing with kids

There are so many places you can go snowshoeing, and your location will dictate the types of terrain and available areas that you have as options. However, here are few places you can look into, which may allow snowshoeing in your area: 

• City, county, state, and national parks
• Golf courses
• Open or backcountry space
• Your own backyard
• City streets or country roads
• Flat hiking trails
• Nordic centers (around ski resorts)
• Mountain lodges & resorts

Simple tips for beginner snowshoeing 

While snowshoeing is a very easy outdoor activity to do with kids, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to make your outing successful. Here are some tips that we’ve learned over the years of snowshoeing with our kids. 

Research trails

On your first couple of outings, keep it short and sweet. Aim for a flat, groomed trail and try snowshoeing for 30 minutes. Heck, with little kids, 15 minutes may be all that you get out of them the first couple of times. Praise them for their efforts! Praise yourself! You got outside in winter! It will get easier, and I truly believe you’ll love winter more. 

Invest in good winter gear

Good quality winter coats, snowpants, and boots for the whole family can be expensive. Try a second-hand store for gently used winter gear. Kids grow out of things so quickly that rarely their gear is worn out by the time they need the next size. That is why it makes sense to buy second-hand. Not to mention, it is much easier on the environment. If you cannot find any gently-used gear, REI is a great place to buy clothing and supplies. They have a great return policy if something doesn’t end up working out for you or your children. 

Bring a backpack

It’s always nice to have a backpack on you, filled with some essentials. We always pack a compass, map, snacks, water, camera, spare gloves, sunscreen, First Aid Kit, and phone. Include whatever essential items you may need to stay safe and warm (extra gloves, hand warmers, etc.).  

Pack snacks

As I mentioned before, snowshoeing is a really great workout. You’ll be burning calories from snowshoeing itself, and if it is cold outside, your body will be using energy to keep you warm. Solution? Snacks. Always snacks.  Having a filling snack on the trail will keep everyone happy. Think carbs and protein. Also water! It may seem counterintuitive that you’ll need to drink water, but in the cold and during exercise you breathe faster so you lose water just with exhalation. An easy thing to bring is a PB&J sandwich and a water bottle. Also, a quick dose of sugar (a piece of dried fruit or hot chocolate, for example) is always nice to have on hand in case someone starts to meltdown. 

Have fun

As parents, we all know that our attitudes affect our children’s attitudes. If we’re not having fun, chances are that they aren’t either. But if they see how excited we are to do this, they just might be more open-minded about it. Point out the trees, plants and animals around you. Tell them repeatedly how well they’re doing. This applies to any activity, not just snowshoeing. If they’re not enjoying the hike, stop and build a snowman! Or bring a sled to play on. Or have a delicious snack. 

Be safe

Before you leave for your outdoor adventure, tell someone where you’re going, when to expect you back, and mark the location where you parked. It is easy to get turned around in the snow when the entire ground is white. If it starts snowing, it can be even worse. 

Snowshoeing gear recommendations

Again, snowshoeing is a great entry-level outdoor activity for kids that doesn’t require a lot of gear or equipment. However, there are definitely benefits of making sure you’re dressed appropriately for outdoor weather when doing anything outside with kids in the winter. Obviously, none of this is required for a good time, but here is the gear that we have tried and tested over the years and love and recommend to you. 

• Snowshoes – When you’re ready to invest in snowshoes for yourself or your kids, start with flat terrain snowshoes. They’re designed to walk on flat, groomed, or rolling terrain. Smaller snowshoes are better for compact snow, larger snowshoes provide more “floatation” and are best for deep powder. The snowshoes will list the recommended weight (this is your body weight plus gear).
• Boots – We have had the best luck with Kamik boots – waterproof, warm, and durable. 
• Base Layer – We like a fleece-lined long john layer.  This option comes in plenty of colors.
• Insulating (mid-layer) – A fleece jacket is a great mid-layer and can also be used year-round to take the chill off during evenings outside. We love Columbia Fleece. 
• Outer layer – We can’t say enough about our Reima snowsuits! Waterproof and toasty warm! 
• Mittens – Fingers warm each other (so we like mittens better than gloves) these are a good option, affordable and waterproof. 
• Sunscreen – All Good Sunscreen 
• Extra socks, as well as hand and foot warmers. 

Outdoor winter activity for kids

Starting a new winter activity can be so exciting, and snowshoeing is a simple, fun way to enjoy an afternoon outside with your children. It is quiet enough that you can talk as you go, but also gives a great workout. The views you can find in the winter are incredible and it will give you a whole new appreciation for the beauty of winter. We really hope you’ll give snowshoeing a try this winter. Get those kids (and yourself) outside for a fun new adventure! 

Have you ever tried snowshoeing with kids?
I would love to hear about your snowshoeing adventures!

About the author

Ashley is an RN certified in Advanced Wilderness Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support. She’s a nature-loving mother of two who is passionate about outdoor education for parents and their children. Ashley grew up in Alaska, where her family spent most of their time outdoors fishing, camping, skiing, and hiking. She currently lives with her husband and children near the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe, where they can be found outdoors year-round; hiking, backpacking, biking, skiing, and camping. She is also very passionate about photography and owns a small photography business.

You can find more from Ashley in the following online locations:
Instagram: @sage.and.summit
Website: Sage & Summit Photography
RWMC posts: Ashley Greenhalgh

The post Beginner’s Guide to Snowshoeing with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Welcome to Banff

My family an I are lucky to live within driving distance to the Canadian Rockies.  To recharge our batteries after a busy January, we decided to take a quick road trip to Banff National Park for the weekend. One might think we are crazy to plan an outdoor adventure during the coldest time of the year, but there’s something to be said about freshly fallen snow and frozen lakes. If you haven’t experienced it, I highly recommend you give it a try. And when you have a 4 year old adventure seeker, outside (even during the winter) is the best place to be.

Where to stay

Typically, on a quick weekend getaway we stay at a hotel in the area. We are regulars at the Banff Park Lodge, as it suits our needs quite well. The hotel is located smack dab in the center of town, but is still surrounded by nature. Often you can see elk randomly crossing the street in the middle of town!  By staying here, we are able to walk to restaurants, trails and even a market without our kiddo getting too tired. However, if you’re looking to stay longer or want other accommodations, there are a ton of amazing cottages and condo style accommodations available in the area and around the park.

Winter Activities

While we love the area year-round, both the town of Banff and the park are absolutely glorious during the winter. Skiing is the main attraction, but there’s so much more to do in Banff than just heading down the slopes of the Rockies. Travelers come from around the globe to meander the snow-covered, shop-lined streets, nestle into the world famous hotel or overlook the infamous view from Chateau Lake Louise. Families can also indulge in unique winter activities such as dog sledging, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, snowshoeing or a game of curling. The drive along the world-renowned Icefields Parkway towards Jasper is absolutely breathtaking. And the experience of standing on the ancient Athabasca Glacier is well worth the trip.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is by far our favorite place to visit in the entire province of Alberta, no matter what season! The lake is about a 45 minute drive from Banff, so we turn on our favorite playlist and before we know it, we’re there! The views and photo ops at Lake Louise are unparalleled, year-round. During the winter, the lake is frozen solid. This means there are people skating, playing hockey and even snowshoeing. It’s spectacular! Whether you’re a skating pro or first-timer, it doesn’t get much more Canadian than skating on a natural lake rink in a national park beside an ice castle! Skate rentals are available and a large section of the lake is serviced by a makeshift Zamboni that helps smooth out the surface. To warm up, just head inside the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and enjoy a rich steamy hot chocolate.

Banff Gondola

Located just minutes from town center the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain is a must with kids. After purchasing tickets, kids receive a Junior Explorer booklet so they can do a little scavenger hunt when they arrive at the top of the mountain. The ride up the mountain is so much fun! For those that are not a fan of heights, beware; it will make your heart race! However, the ride is only about 8 minutes long. At the peak (an elevation of 2,281m or 7,486 ft), you’ll enjoy an incredible vista of six mountain ranges.

At the top of the gondola, there’s lots to do. There’s a little cafe called the Sky Bistro, which offers up top notch food with spectacular views (definitely worth a splurge). However, be advised that is often closed for a few weeks in January for annual maintenance, so check before you head out. Also, there’s a hike to Sanson’s Peak (which we haven’t done yet as it has always been too slippery) and an interpretation center. The center has interactive games and a cinema room where you can watch bears and other wildlife up close in their habitat. Prepare to spend at least a morning or afternoon here. For more information and pricing check out the Banff Gondola website.

Banff Red Chair Movement

Another favorite family activity is finding the red chairs. Adorable red Adirondack chairs are located in several popular hot spots around the picturesque town. Some chairs are easy to find and others will have you exploring — around the forest, on top of a ski hill and at the mouth of a large glacial lake. There is a map to print off to help you find the locations of all the chairs. We’ve had some good luck over our last few visits but still haven’t managed to find them all…yet! Make sure you take a selfie once you find the chairs and share it with Parks Canada by using the hashtag #sharethechair.

Kid-friendly eateries

Beaver Tails – Indulge in a decadent piece of fried dough smothered in Nutella. YUM. And if you are feeling extra hungry, be sure to try their poutine!

Eddie Burger & Bar – A small restaurant and usually pretty busy, but well worth the wait!  They have a variety of menu items that will entice even the pickiest of eaters.

Boston Pizza – A chain pizza joint that offers both eat in and take-out options.  Lots of menu choices and a big hit with our kiddo!

Hope you enjoyed exploring some of what Banff National Park has to offer families!
If you’ve been to Banff, we’d love to hear what your family favorites are – leave a comment below.

Hi, I’m Krista! A 30-something, coffee-drinking mama of one kiddo (4) and wife to an amazing guy. We live in Alberta (yes, the Winters are freezing) and have the Canadian Rockies as our playground.  I can plan an epic road trip – complete with a playlist – at the drop of a hat, just don’t ask me to get crafty!

The post 48 Hours in Banff National Park with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

As a Minnesota native, all I know is brutally long, cold winters. Winter can start in November and run through April, sometimes even May. Winter is a child’s dream come true: a playground full of white, fluffy stuff to sled down or sculpt into snowmen and forts. A blank canvas of possibility. I spent many hours as a kid outside in the winter, bundled up in layers so thick it was an exercise in strength and agility just to walk. As a kid, those things never bothered me or slowed down my curiosity for new adventures.

But somewhere along the way, the years have muddied my view on this season. As a parent, winter can feel like an imprisonment. We spend long months inside, the walls of our house our jail cell. The kids run wild inside, their voices echoing and booming, my nerves rattled. They itch to go outside. They don’t see a frozen land, miles upon miles of white nothingness. Instead they see nature’s playground, countless activities awaiting them.

When I discard my tainted adult perspective and adopt their mindset, I’m taken back to my childhood days. When we get outside, despite the cold and damp and thousands of minutes of preparation to get us there, I remember what an amazing experience winter can be. We plop onto a fresh white plot of ground, flailing our arms and legs to create heavenly wings, and then balance precariously onto one side to get up without ruining our work of art—snow angels.

We scoop up heavy wet snow, the best kind for sculpting, and begin the process of creating a snowman. Scoop and smear, scoop and smear, until we form a lumpy ball for the body. Repeat the process for the head. Then we rummage around for items to be turned into body parts, maybe even run inside for winter accessories to dress the snowman. We name him. Ted. Fred. Olaf. Or simply Snowman. You must name him.

Days pass, weeks even, and we will check on him through a window, gauging whether he’s melting or surviving. In a particularly cold spell, the snowman might last a whole month. Eventually, we’ll go back out and collect the scarf and hat that sit where Ted or Fred or Olaf once was.

When I tap into my childhood spirit and forget the way the cold freezes my boogers on impact or the way the wind takes my very breath away, we will grab the sleds and find the nearest hill. We will take turns WHEEEEing our way down the hill, over and over again, our breathing becoming heavy from the exercise of climbing back up the hill each time.

Or we will cross the street to the big snow mountain made by the snowplows, a dumping ground turned snow fortress. We’ll climb to the top and slide down. Again and again. We’ll take cover behind it as a brother launches a snowball at us. Duck and hide. We’ll perch atop it, throwing snowballs onto the sleds below, an impromptu game born.

When I forget about the search for matching mittens, the struggle to cram feet into boots, the protests as the scarves get tied tightly around their faces…when I focus less on the process of getting us outside and more on the experience of being out in nature, then magic is made. It’s all in a change of perspective, and it’s always worth it.

So bundle up and get yourself and the kids outside. Enjoy the magic of winter through the eyes of a child. Trust me, you won’t regret it and neither will they. And, just remember, there’s always hot cocoa and marshmallows afterwards.

What was your favorite winter activity as a child?

I’m Angie: wife, stay-at-home-mom of three wild hyenas, an introvert with a creative itch that needs to be scratched. My creative outlets comes in the form of photography, writing, scrapbooking, crafting with my kids and sewing. We call Minnesota our home and are always on the lookout for kid-friendly things to do as a family for all seasons.

Instagram: @angie_mahlke

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