Doctors Advocate Healthy Benefits of Kids’ Traditional Snow Days
In light of an impending winter storm forecast to impact New York City, Mayor Zohran Mamdani has announced there will be no traditional snow days for students. The storm is expected to begin on Sunday, potentially depositing 8 to 12 inches of snow and bringing frigid temperatures. A definitive decision on whether classes will shift to remote learning will be made by noon on Sunday.
Health Benefits of Traditional Snow Days for Kids
Following the mayor’s announcement, several health professionals emphasized the advantages of traditional snow days for children. They argue that these days contribute positively to children’s mental health and overall well-being.
Unplugging for Mental Health
Jonathan Alpert, a psychotherapist based in New York City and Washington, D.C., stated that traditional snow days provide a chance for children to unplug from their devices and engage in outdoor activities. He remarked that spending time outside can help regulate their nervous systems, enhance mood, and allow them to return to school refreshed.
The Importance of Outdoor Play
Doctors emphasize that snow days should not be viewed as a loss of educational time. Instead, they provide opportunities for physical activity, socialization, and the joy of unstructured play. This includes activities such as:
- Sledding
- Building snow forts
- Enjoying snowball fights
Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst, echoed these sentiments, arguing that snow days allow kids to socialize and engage in fun while being actively involved with their surroundings.
Balancing Screen Time
Many experts are concerned about the increasing screen time children face. Kathryn L. Jones, M.D., a child psychiatrist, mentioned that kids today are often burdened with scheduled activities and may resort to online relaxation, impacting their overall ability to engage in play.
Jones believes snow days deserve more recognition for the lessons they impart about nature and personal connections. She advocates for children to reconnect with outdoor play, noting the various sensory experiences that come with it.
Virtual Learning: Pros and Cons
While some experts believe that transitioning to virtual learning during inclement weather can provide stability, they caution that it often lacks the effectiveness of in-person learning. Alpert noted that previous experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic showed remote schooling did not provide the same benefits as traditional classes.
| Benefits of Snow Days | Drawbacks of Virtual Learning |
|---|---|
| Encourages outdoor play | Lacks structure and rest |
| Enhances social interactions | Can increase stress for students and teachers |
| Improves mental health | May lead to ineffective learning |
Making the Most of Snow Days
For families that have the opportunity to enjoy a traditional snow day, doctors advise taking certain precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Dress warmly in hats, gloves, and coats.
- Have a warm drink like hot chocolate after outdoor activities.
- Engage in safe indoor activities if weather conditions are severe.
By embracing the concept of unplugged snow days, children can enjoy physical activity, enrich their mental health, and rediscover the simple joys of playing outdoors. This holistic approach to their well-being should be recognized and valued by communities and parents alike.
