There are some pretty frigid temperatures in the forecast this week across Western New York! As far as I can remember, this will be the first significant Arctic blast of the season. While it’s nice to have snow for the Christmas season, the bitter cold is something most of us could do without. Still, it’s just another part of living here in Western New York.

Parents Across WNY Prepare for the Cold

As temperatures drop, parents around Western New York are making sure they have everything their kids need to stay warm over the next few weeks and months. For those with little ones, it can be especially challenging, just when you finally get all the layers on, someone suddenly has to use the bathroom! And squeezing them into car seats while they’re bundled like marshmallows is its own winter workout.

But beyond keeping kids warm and healthy before Christmas, many parents across WNY are looking for ways to build healthy winter habits that will carry through the colder months ahead.

Creating a New Family Routine

We have four children under the age of nine, and our youngest is 2. We know firsthand how much energy kids have, and how that energy skyrockets when they’ve been cooped up inside too long. That’s why my wife and I decided that this year, we’re starting a new family habit that we hope will last well into spring and summer.

I love the outdoors and feel most alive when I’m outside in the fresh air. So we decided to combine our love for nature with a simple family routine that helps all of us get outside more this winter.

15 to 20 Minutes Outdoors Every Day

Over the next several weeks and months, our goal is to get the kids outside for at least 15 to 20 minutes a day. It can be something simple like a walk, or something more involved like hiking a trail, building a snowman, having a snowball fight, or even shoveling together.

We’re lucky here in Western New York to have so many great trails and parks. And if you widen the distance to the entire state, there are countless family-friendly hiking spots—many of them simple, accessible, and free.

Bundling Up and Staying Safe in the Cold

As the cold weather settles in, our family’s new habit is to enjoy at least 15 minutes of fresh-air time each day, no matter how low the temperature drops. Of course, it’s our responsibility as parents to make sure the kids are bundled up—from hats and gloves to face coverings.

One of our sons doesn’t handle cold air very well and often ends up with bronchitis, so we make sure he’s protected with a scarf or face mask to warm the air before he breathes it in.

New York Dad’s Five Rules For Winter

Gallery Credit: Clay Moden

A Great Habit for Any Western New Yorker

This time of year isn’t just great for families starting new routines, it’s great for anyone in Western New York. I’ve always believed the air feels freshest when it’s cold outside. I also deal with occasional cold-related bronchitis, so I try to stay mindful of how long I’m outside in frigid temperatures and how much cold air I’m taking in.

Read More: Major Ban Impacting Wildlife In Western New York

Looking Ahead to a Great Season

I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and an even better winter! Now is the perfect time to set up a routine that helps the days pass more quickly and keeps spirits high through the cold and snow.

As my father always said, “One day closer to spring!”

New York Dad’s Five Rules For Winter

Gallery Credit: Clay Moden