Wild and Wonderful Winter Outings for Kids by Anita Evans

Youth from FOYAN's partner program "Together for Resilient Youth" or TRY, enjoy a winter day on the Grand Mesa National Forest, sledding, ice fishing, creating snow sculptures and learning to cross-country ski and snowshoe

Winter is the most magical time to get children outside. The crisp mountain air calls to something deep in the soul. Snow blanketing the ground brings a fresh clean slate for creating memories together.
 
To have successful outings with kids in the winter takes a bit of preparation. There are things you can gather now that will make that first outing to the sledding hill more fun for all. It’s time to make a list and gather essential items. Grab a box or backpack that you can use to collect essential items and put in an “out of the way” spot. Make a list of anything else you need but use on a regular basis and cannot put in your box.
 
When you take a trip to the Grand Mesa, or any other mountain destination, you need to remember that you are going to a completely different environment. Local mountain playgrounds are a mile higher in elevation than the surrounding valleys, and temperatures, sun intensity, and weather often are important considerations. Check the weather forecast the day before your outing to make sure you are properly prepared.
 
It is always good to have extra gloves, knit caps, socks, chemical hand warmers, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and sweaters in your car or pack to stay protected during a morning of winter fun! You can put a few old hats and gloves in your “winter gear box” that you take with you, and that way if someone in your party forgets something, you are good to go!
 
 Sunscreen, sun protecting lip balm, and sunglasses are a must to protect against sunburn. Being in the mountains means a mile less of insulating atmosphere, and more intense reflection of the sun off the snow. Make sure your sunscreen is a broad-spectrum protection (protecting from both UVA and UVB rays) with at least 30 SPF, or ‘sun protecting factor.’
 
Days are short in the winter, and darkness sometimes falls a little earlier than you expect. A headlamp in your pack will come in very handy (extra batteries in a ziploc). There are lightweight led lights that will do the job as well and are easy to carry. It’s always a good idea to have matches or a lighter and a space blanket with you. Many of these items can be stored in your car through the winter.
 
Dressing in layers, or “like an onion” on the day of your outing is very important! Having a wool or synthetic underlayer next to your skin will help absorb moisture and keep you warm, even if it gets wet. The next upper layer should be a wool or pile sweater or sweatshirt, and then a light water and wind proof jacket over that is your outer onion layer! With this system, if you are working hard cross-country skiing or climbing that sledding hill, you can peel off a layer to prevent overheating, and put it back on when you are sitting around at lunch. The same layering system works well on your legs, with either long underwear or tights under your outer layer of wind pants or snow pants. Large bulky winter coats make it difficult to regulate your body temperature when you are being active outdoors, but they are important in protecting yourself from the wind and will keep you warm while you are less active.
 
Taking care of your hands and feet and head are important, too!  Wear a warm pair of wool or synthetic socks – sometimes two layers work well if your boots are big enough. Most winter and ski boots have wonderful insulation, however, and one pair of warm socks is usually sufficient. Don’t depend on your athletic shoes to keep you warm: heavier and more water repellent boots will serve you better. If you only have athletic shoes, a plastic sack outside your sock and inside your shoe will help keep you dry. Gloves are important when playing in the snow! Look for gloves that fit well, are not too snug, and have modest insulation and a water repellent, yet breathable, synthetic outer layer. Some folks like to have a thin glove liner with them that fits well inside their regular glove in case the weather gets cold. And always bring a cozy knit cap made of wool or acrylic. You can lose up to 70% of your body heat through your head if it is uncovered.
 
In addition to what goes on your body to keep you comfortable, it is important remember to bring food and water with you. Stay hydrated - frequent sips of water help stave off altitude headaches and will leave you with more energy. And it is important to bring healthy high calorie snacks like trail mix (aka gorp), cheese sticks, apples and peanut butter, and snack bars. Exercising outside, especially in the winter, takes energy! A thermos of hot tea or hot chocolate is also a welcome treat that warms your body from the inside out.
 
As with all outdoor experiences, when you are well prepared your wild winter outing will truly be wonderful!