Winter guidelines
The following policy will guide decision making on cold days:
Recess will be held inside if:
Temperatures are below 0 degrees (ambient and/or wind chill)
Regular outdoor recess will proceed if:
Temperatures are zero degrees or above (ambient and/or wind chill)
It is the responsibility of parents to assure students bring appropriate winter outer-ware consistent with the weather.
It is the responsibility of teachers to ensure students are appropriately dressed for the elements, and are attentive to student self-monitoring.
*In cases where ambient temperature is above 0, and wind chills are between 0 and -10, teachers can, based on the needs and preparedness of the students, utilize outdoor play for not more than 15 minute intervals.
Pathfinder places great value the importance of being outside:
Spending time outside in the winter can lift children’s mood
Fresh Air helps children to concentrate
Outside play is quieter than inside; reducing the stress level for children.
Being outside in active play gives children exercise.
Exercise is good for the brain
Creating friendships and learning social behaviors
Spending time outside connects children with the outside world, and preventing Nature Deficit-Disorder;
Children who spend time outside in fresh air sleep better.
