Pediatrician House Calls: How Long Should Children Play Outside In Winter?

What is the wind chill?

Whenever there is wind chill present, pediatricians recommend that you take this into account before sending your child outside to play. If the temperature, including the wind chill, is at least 32 degrees F, it is safe.

If the temperature with wind chill is at least 15 degrees Fahrenheit but less than 32, it is safe for your child to play outside for limited stretches. A good rule of thumb is to let your child play outside for 20-30 minute stretches, followed by at least that amount of time inside for a break.

Once the temperature with wind chill is below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, you should keep your children inside until it is warmer. The reason is because temperatures with wind chill that low very quickly cause frostbite.