“My Child Gets Poorly From Being Out in the Cold and Rain”
Is This True?
It is a very common belief that cold or wet weather causes children to become unwell. However, this is a myth.
Colds, flu, and most common childhood illnesses are caused by viruses, not by being outside in cold or rainy weather. Children do not become ill simply from being outdoors in winter conditions.
So Why Do Illnesses Seem More Common in Winter?
It can feel like children are more poorly in colder months, but this is usually due to:
- Viruses spreading more easily when people are indoors together
- Increased close contact in enclosed spaces (homes, classrooms, settings)
- Poor ventilation indoors during colder weather
- Seasonal viruses circulating more frequently at certain times of year
It is not the cold air or rain itself that causes illness.
Fresh Air and Outdoor Play Are Good for Children
In fact, spending time outdoors has many benefits for children’s health and wellbeing. Fresh air and outdoor play can:
- Support physical health and fitness
- Strengthen the immune system over time
- Improve mood and emotional wellbeing
- Support better sleep patterns
- Reduce the spread of infections compared to indoor environments
Outdoor play is an important part of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and supports children’s learning and development in all weather conditions.
Can Children Go Out in the Rain or Cold?
Yes—children can safely go outside in most weather conditions as long as they are dressed appropriately.
There is no such thing as “bad weather,” only unsuitable clothing.
When children are dressed correctly, they can comfortably enjoy outdoor play in rain, wind, and cold temperatures.
How to Dress Your Child for the Weather
To keep children comfortable outdoors, we recommend:
- Warm layers in cold weather (vests, jumpers, coats)
- Waterproof coats and trousers for wet weather
- Well-fitting waterproof shoes or wellington boots
- Hats and gloves in colder months
- Spare clothing in case they get wet during play
Children are much more likely to enjoy outdoor learning when they are warm and dry.
What About Getting “Chilled”?
Being cold or wet may feel uncomfortable, but it does not cause illness. Illness only occurs when a virus enters the body.
If a child does become wet or cold, they may feel uncomfortable, but this is easily managed by changing clothes and warming up afterwards.
Outdoor Play in Our Provision
At our provision, outdoor play is an essential part of every child’s day. We encourage children to explore and learn outdoors throughout the year, as this supports:
- Physical development and gross motor skills
- Confidence and independence
- Curiosity and problem-solving
- Resilience and emotional wellbeing
We aim to ensure children have regular opportunities to be outside in all seasons, with appropriate clothing and support.
A Healthy Approach to Weather
Protecting children from illness is not about avoiding the outdoors—it is about good hygiene, healthy routines, and understanding how illness spreads.
By encouraging outdoor play in all seasons, we are supporting children to become healthy, active, and confident learners.
