If you are moving to Colorado from a “warm” state, the winter time may take some getting use to. For starters, a snow day from school does not keep students in the house all day. Playing in the snow is a favorite pastime for Colorado kids. Keeping them safe and warm while they play is important to avoid frost bite.
Average Winter Temperatures
Many think that when they move to Denver, they are moving to a Winter Wonderland, the honest truth? The Colorado Front Range – located east of the Rocky Mountains, receives on average 56.5 inches of snow each winter. Compared to the mountains, where the average is between 60-100 inches. The average temperature in December, January & February is a high of 48 degrees and a low of 20 degrees.
However, the rumors are true, Denver has over 300 days of sunshine a year (more than San Diego). And, with an elevation of 5,280 feet (a mile above sea level) that sun can get pretty intense. So playing in the snow can get tricky if you are a newcomer.
Playing in the SNOW
Here are a few tips to keeping kids safe & warm during the winter in Colorado. If you are going to move here, you are going to have to learn to appreciate it!
- Wear sun screen on your face and any other areas exposed to the sun. (Remember we are not called the Mile High City for nothing)
- HYDRATE – drink lots of water
- Dress in Layers. Believe it or not, playing in the snow works up a sweat. A good word of wisdom is, dress kids in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear.
- Limit the time allowed to play outside during the winter. Kids do not have the same tolerance to the cold as adults – so watch for runny noses. That is typically a good time to bring them in for some hot chocolate.
- ALWAYS wear warm socks, boots, hats and gloves!
- GET OUT AND PLAY WITH YOUR KIDS – you’ll find there is nothing better than a snow ball fight or building a snow fort!
Welcome to a Colorado Winter!
