Snow Days Benefit Kids’ Health, Doctors Confirm: Permission to Unplug

As winter storms approach, cities face a dilemma regarding traditional snow days for students. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced there would be no conventional snow days for kids amid forecasts predicting significant snowfall and freezing temperatures. This decision has prompted a discussion about the implications of snow days on children’s well-being.

Snow Days Benefit Kids’ Health, Doctors Confirm

Many health professionals believe that traditional snow days offer crucial benefits for children. Experts assert that these breaks from routine can significantly enhance mental and physical health.

The Importance of Unplugging

Psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert, based in New York City and Washington, D.C., emphasizes that unplugging from screens and engaging in outdoor activities is essential for kids’ well-being. He advocates for allowing children to experience the freedom of a snow day, filled with fun and outdoor play.

• Snow days provide a chance for kids to engage in physical activities.
• Playing outdoors boosts mood and focuses attention.
• Activities like sledding and building snow forts enhance creativity.

Experts Weigh In

Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst, supports the idea of using snow days for socializing and unstructured play. He encourages letting children immerse themselves in outdoor fun, like making snowmen and participating in snowball fights.

Dr. Kathryn L. Jones, an adolescent psychiatrist, points out that children often feel overwhelmed and pressured by schedules packed with extracurricular activities. She believes that snow days allow kids to reconnect with the joy of play, benefiting both their mental and emotional health.

Virtual Learning Considerations

While some schools might pivot to virtual learning during storms, experts caution that online learning cannot replicate the benefits of in-person interaction and play. Alpert stresses that remote learning often perpetuates stress as it keeps kids mentally engaged without allowing them to truly rest.

Dr. Jarrod M. Leffler notes that if implemented thoughtfully, virtual learning can maintain consistency. However, poor planning can exacerbate stress for both students and teachers.

Making the Most of Snow Days

For those experiencing traditional snow days, doctors have provided advice on how to enjoy them safely:

• Dress appropriately with warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and coats.
• If kids get wet, encourage them to warm up indoors.
• Engage in indoor activities when outdoor play isn’t feasible due to extreme weather.

Snow days should not be overlooked. They offer valuable opportunities for children to learn about nature and engage in physical activity, ultimately promoting a healthier lifestyle.