Good Afternoon Preschool Parents!
Many of you have been curious as to how we decide whether or not we go outside for recess during the winter months. I decided to copy and paste the Office of Student Health and Wellness guideline for the Office of Early Childhood and Chicago Public Schools. Below are the guidelines we follow.
Please make sure you write your child’s name in every article of clothing he/she brings to school so we know they don’t get mixed up. Also, if you would like to keep a pair of slippers or shoes in their cubby this winter, that would be great! This way if your child wears boots to school, they can change into slippers or shoes once inside the building.
This also is a good time to send in some extra change of clothes that are appropriate for winter time. Many of the clothes in their bags are for the summer or spring time. Please send in long sleeved shirts, long pants, and an extra pair of pants!
Thank you for your help in advance!
Office of Student Health and Wellness
Cold Weather Guidelines
Cold air does not make us sick, germs make us sick. Make sure students are getting outside for recess/gross motor time at your school! Outdoor recess time allows children to get fresh air, provides an opportunity for children to engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity, and gives students more activity options than most indoor spaces. The Office of Student Health and Wellness recommends using 20 degrees F with or without wind chill as the threshold for keeping students in for recess. Please see the following CPS cold weather guidelines for outdoor recess:
Cold Weather Guidelines:
- Above 32 degrees F with or without wind chill: Recess should be held outdoors.
- Between 31 degrees F and 15 degrees F with or without wind chill: Principal discretion.
- Below 15 degrees F with or without wind chill: Recess should be held indoors.
Preschool in the City with Mrs. Gabelman 