DEAR SPRINGFIELD MAMA

Temperatures are dropping in Springfield and it’s time to put some energy into thoughtfully dressing our children — and ourselves — for the winter.

In years past, I let biting winds and frigid temperatures keep me inside from November to February, and it did nothing for my mental health. It didn’t help that Leo was zooming around my heels, fraying my nerves and stealing the zen from my beloved cozy spaces.

But after reading “There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather” by Linda McGurk, I set out to properly equip us for outdoor fall and winter time. And much to my surprise, once Leo had the right clothing, he voluntarily went outdoors more — and stayed outside for hours!

But why should I take my family out in the cold?

A.) It’s lovely. There’s obvious beauty in October and November when the leaves set skylines on fire, but the real shock comes after the last brown leaves falls. Stark winterscapes can be beautiful, as the eye can see vistas that thick greenery can block out. Bonus: There’s virtually zero bugs, snakes or poison ivy.

B.) It invigorates and regulates you and your family. There is actually real, compelling science that sunlight, fresh air and exposure to nature meaningfully affects your health and mood, especially in the winter!

3 books that will inspire and motivate you to get outside this winter (Tap to expand)

“There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather” by Linda McGurk

“The Nature Fix” by Florence Williams

“The Open-Air Life” by Linda McGurk.

How to stay warm in Springfield, MO’s cold winter months

All suggestions apply to both adults and children!

Base Layer:

The base layer is the one that sits closest to your skin. It should be warm, odor resistant, and quick drying. A soft merino wool is nice but sometimes expensive, so a cozy synthetic or blended material can be a strong alternative. I like the CuddlDuds brand, which you can currently find in Kohl’s near the hats and scarves for women. The kids sizes are in the aisle between toddler clothing and big kids section.

For kids: Wool can still be too scratchy for little ones — even the high-end stuff. Have them try it on, and return anything that gets complaints.

Mid Layer:

Zip-up fleece is a wonderful mid layer, but sweaters and sweatshirts are also great. Personally, I avoid pull-over sweaters and sweatshirts, as I always overheat every time I go into a store or get in my car. I need the flexibility to unzip or peel off at will. Avoid hooded ones so you’re not doubling up on hoods when you add your coat layer.

On your legs, wear water-resistant or quick drying pants. I like these fleece-lined bootcut leggings I got on Amazon, which I can layer over my Cuddlduds on chilly days. I’d love to invest in a waterproof pant layer for wet or snowy conditions, but I’m still on the hunt.

Top Layer:

Look for insulated, windproof and waterproof. Many coats look adorable until the wind blows right through them. Features that matter: drawstring hoods, storm flaps (buttons over zippers), and a longer length to protect legs from cold gusts.

For kids: If you can find it, choose a waterproof top layer for your kids. Then they can go out in drizzle and a snow without any complaints!

Feet:

Merino wool socks are wonderful, but I’ve been equally thrilled with my Costco Bearpaw socks!

For shoes, choose waterproof and ankle height.

For kids: Make sure the shoe fits WITH the thick winter socks on. Since Leo joined Firefly Nature School, we invested in some fancy waterproof trekking shoes. He’s practically slept in these shoes, he loves them so much.

Accessories:

Always add a hat! For those going on long outdoor excursions, consider an additional gator to cover the head and mouth. A fellow Nature School mom swears by these, saying it was a gamechanger for her daughter’s comfort on long school days outside.

For gloves, my family has been thrilled with Costco’s Head gloves. They’re not as bulky as snow gloves, but not as thin as the standard knit ones.

If you’re going on nature walks with kids — even short walks around the Nature Center — consider bringing a backpack for the grownup. That way, when kids inevitably start peeling their layers, you have a place to put them while staying hands free!

More kid-friendly outdoor spots: