READ MORE
Children need to play outside every day, even in the winter.  Going outside to run, jump, and yell allows children to use large muscle and work of energy.  The fresh air and moving outdoors is heathier for children then keeping them inside where germs can easily be spread.
Winter play enhances brain function.
 When a child is outside the movements associated with outdoor winter play beginning with the simple act of walking in snow or on ice (in thick/heavy boots and clothing, no less). Immediately, the brain is fired up! This is a new experience – and a complex one. Legs must go higher, balance is tested.
Winter outdoor play enhance creativity.
Winter brings all new possibilities for creative play, imagination and construction. Forget sand castles, build a frozen snow castle! Or snowmen, snow mountains, snow towers, snow forts, snow volcanoes, snow lanterns, snow sculptures, snow cakes, etc. You can paint the snow, eat the snow, and make angels in the snow. Snow and ice offer kids a never-ending supply of elements for creative little minds.
Winter play enhance physical development and health
Playing in the snow will get the lymphatic system moving helping to clear the body of toxins. Additionally, these outdoor winter play movements involve muscles that may not get as much use in other seasons. The simple act of pulling a sled up a hill gives the legs a magnificent workout.
National and state health and wellness best practice standards recommends daily outdoor play for young children.  Caring for our young children’s national health and safety standards state:

 

Caring for Our Children Standards state that children should play outdoors unless weather poses a significant risk and includes wind chill at or below 15 degrees, heat index above 90 degrees and/or an air quality alerts exist.