Skip To Main Content

Outdoor Recess

Revised as of December 23, 2016

Caley Elementary Cold Weather Guidelines for Outdoor Recess

King of Prussia, PA 19406

Students will go outside for recess every day unless it is raining, sleeting, snowing or there is severe cold weather based on the "feels like" temperature. We watch the temperature and weather conditions closely in the morning in hopes of being able to go outside. Decisions for indoor recess are typically made in the morning by the main office team using the hourly forecast for the “feels like” temperature on www.weather.com.

It is very important that students dress appropriately for the weather when they leave the house in the morning to come to school. Children reporting to school without proper winter attire will not be permitted to participate in outdoor recess. The classroom teacher will make this decision in the classroom prior to the transition to recess. Students may be asked to report to the cafeteria or main lobby to be supervised while the rest of the grade is at recess. We expect students to wear closed shoes to school regardless of temperature so “closed shoes” is not reflected in winter- specific clothing.

The following criteria will be used to determine whether or not we will have outdoor recess. Please note all temperatures are “feels like” temperatures and factor in wind chill.

  • Between 27-29 °F:
    • This decision will be based on current conditions, how many days the students have had indoor recess in the previous week, whether or not the sun is shining, and wind speed among other criteria. We may also decide to abbreviate the length of the recess in order to have students experience time outdoors.
    • Winter coats must be zipped.
    • Hats and gloves or mittens are highly recommended.
  • Between 30 and 40 °F:
    • Winter coats should be zipped.
    • Hats and gloves or mittens are recommended.
  • Between 41 and 50 °F:
    • Winter coat or heavy jacket or sweatshirt/hoodie over long-sleeve clothing
    • Winter hats and gloves are optional.
  • Between 51 and 60 °F:
    • Winter coat or heavy jacket or sweatshirt/hoodie
    • Winter hats and gloves are optional.

Parents, guardians, and caregivers are encouraged to monitor their children’s clothing selections to make sure they are prepared for colder temperatures and are appropriately dressed for outdoor recess. Please label your child’s winter clothes so if they misplace them we can get them returned. The best bet is to assume your chi d will be outside for recess every day and dress them accordingly. We thank you for your support!