Is it OK to let your kids play outside in the cold? Absolutely! Top Farmington chiropractor Kenneth Wingrove explains why.

Outdoor play during the winter months can actually boost your child's immune system. Winter air has long been blamed for causing sickness. How many times were you told as a child to bundle up so you don't catch a cold?

The truth is, while colds and flu are more common in the winter months, the viruses that cause them live and thrive indoors. Indoor circulation of germs and bacteria is much more harmful than being outside in the cold.

One benefit to being outside is getting fresh air. In the winter months, the viruses that cause colds and flu get circulated in closed air environments. So basically, the more time you spend indoors, the more exposed you will be. Playing outside can strengthen your child's immune system and resistance to allergies. Studies have shown that children that play outside have the best overall health.

Playing Out in The Cold in Farmington NM

And just because it's cold outside here in Farmington doesn't mean that your children have lost the desire or energy to play!

Maybe getting them outside to run in the sun is just the ten minutes of adult time you need...

Physical activity gives the immune system a boost for a full 24 hours. Aside from the physical benefits of outdoor play, it also stimulates your child's imagination.

So, layer up and get outside with your kids this winter! Because children lose body heat faster than adults, just make sure they have an extra layer, and make sure to cover their head and neck are covered, as well as a good pair of gloves on their hands. You can have just as much fun in the colder winter months as you can playing in the sun!

Hope to see you outside this winter...I know I will be playing outdoors!

Amy Wolf, LMT, RYT, CHC