It was officially 1 degree when my kids went to school today. There was snow on the ground and they were dressed like their cousin who attends school in Aspen, Colorado – minus the ski pants that they didn’t wear because that was too out-of-the-ordinary for their comfort zone. But they were wearing layers, fleece and wool socks.
My youngest was not thrilled to go back to school after winter break on this record breaking cold morning. Her snow boots were on the wrong feet and refused to wear a hat to the car because it would “mess up my braid.” But that is normal for this one, and we roll with it.
Despite the cold, my girls will STILL go outside and play today. They might not last long and those who are cold will trickle back in as they choose. But who wouldn’t WANT to go throw snowballs with their friends outside. I just have to say, rock on Montessori. They chose not to be shut down by cold weather. 
I do understand schools clossing in districts where children are not equipped with clothing to safely be warm enough in this weather, and when standing at a bus stop is a problem. But all the private schools are closed here too. And the roads are fine. Adults are all expected to be at work today as usual, unless you have a snow kid at home.
While some are surprised the my girls had school today. I think it’s great. The parent handbook addresses wearing proper clothing to school for outside play. And when it gets to be winter, emails are sent out reminding parents to dress their children in winter coats, hats and gloves because unless it’s raining hard —they go outside.
I could go on my soap box about schools not offering enough outside play time. But I won’t. I’ll just encourage you to bundle up the little ones and get outside no mater what the temperatures are today. Even if it’s not long, some bone chilling cold is good for the soul sometimes. And the hot chocolate when you come in will taste better than usual.
