Cold Weather Guidelines for Outdoor Play & Recess      

Time spent outdoors is an important part of the school day.  It is difficult to set guidelines that fit every circumstance and condition in regards to outside activities during cold weather.  Principals are advised to use their discretion and good judgment as to whether or not students will go outside, as well as the duration of the activity.  Children should be exposed to fresh air and exercise.  Time spent outdoors allows students an opportunity to engage in activities that allow them to relax from the structure of the classroom for a short while.  However, there are times when it is not safe for students to be outside.  Please use the guidelines below as a guide for when school recess or outdoor physical activity should be modified.

Recess & Outdoor Physical Activity

1. When properly clothed, elementary school aged children can participate in safe, vigorous play in an outdoor environment in most weather conditions.  Increased caution should be practiced when temperatures reach below 40 degrees including wind chill factor. 

2. When temperatures and wind chill factors fall below 35 degrees including the wind chill, students are kept indoors.

3. Each year students and parents should be informed of the school’s cold weather guidelines, along with reminders about the necessity of wearing appropriate clothing for cold weather activities.

4. Temperature considerations and proper clothing:

• Below 60 degrees       jacket or long sleeves recommended

• Below 50 degrees       coat and long pants recommended

• Below 40 degrees       gloves and hats with above necessary

• Below 35 degrees       indoor recess or physical activity

5. Asthmatic children may need special accommodations.