Winter brings cozy moments, holiday memories, and time spent together—but it also brings shorter days, colder temperatures, and less time outdoors. Just like adults, young children can feel the emotional effects of winter. Changes in daylight, limited outdoor play, and disrupted routines can impact preschoolers’ moods, energy levels, and emotional regulation.
At Kare-A-Lot Childcare, we understand that supporting children’s emotional health is just as important as supporting their physical growth and learning. That’s why we focus on emotional wellness in young children, especially during the winter months when extra care and connection are needed.
How Winter Can Affect Preschoolers’ Emotions and Energy Levels
During winter, children may experience:
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Increased irritability or mood swings
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Lower energy or fatigue
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Difficulty focusing or staying engaged
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Increased clinginess or emotional sensitivity
These responses are natural. Reduced daylight can affect mood, while colder temperatures often mean less outdoor movement—both of which play a role in emotional regulation. Young children don’t yet have the language to explain how they’re feeling, so emotions may show up through behavior instead.
Recognizing these seasonal changes allows caregivers and parents to respond with patience, structure, and support.
The Importance of Movement, Play, and Routine for Mental Health
Movement is one of the most powerful tools for supporting mental health in preschoolers. Physical activity helps children release energy, regulate emotions, and boost mood—even on cold winter days.
At Kare-A-Lot, we prioritize:
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Daily movement through indoor and outdoor play
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Structured routines that provide predictability and security
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A balance of active play and calming activities
Consistent routines help children feel safe and grounded. When children know what to expect each day, their nervous systems can relax, making it easier to manage emotions and transitions.
Social-Emotional Learning Strategies at Kare-A-Lot Childcare
Our approach to social-emotional learning in childcare is woven into everyday routines—not taught as a separate lesson. Winter months offer meaningful opportunities to strengthen these skills.
Some strategies we use include:
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Emotion identification: Helping children name their feelings using words, books, and visuals
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Calm-down tools: Breathing exercises, quiet corners, and sensory materials
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Problem-solving guidance: Supporting children through conflicts with empathy and coaching
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Positive reinforcement: Recognizing kindness, cooperation, and effort
These strategies help children build emotional awareness, resilience, and confidence—skills that benefit them long after winter ends.
Classroom Practices That Encourage Joy, Connection, and Expression
At Kare-A-Lot Childcare, our classrooms are designed to be warm, engaging spaces where children feel seen and supported. During winter, we intentionally focus on practices that encourage joy and connection.
These include:
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Music and movement activities to lift energy and mood
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Storytime focused on emotions, kindness, and friendship
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Creative art projects that allow self-expression
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Small-group activities that build social bonds
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Extra encouragement and emotional check-ins
By fostering strong relationships between children and caregivers, we create a nurturing environment where emotional wellness can flourish—even during the colder months.
How Parents Can Support Emotional Wellness at Home
Families play an essential role in supporting children’s emotional health during winter. A few simple practices can make a big difference:
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Maintain routines: Consistent sleep, meals, and play times help regulate emotions
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Encourage movement: Indoor dance parties, stretching, or winter walks when possible
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Maximize daylight: Open curtains and spend time near natural light
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Talk about feelings: Validate emotions and encourage children to express themselves
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Create connection: Shared activities like reading, cooking, or quiet play build security
Children don’t need constant entertainment—they need presence, understanding, and consistency.
A Whole-Child Approach to Care
At Kare-A-Lot Childcare, we believe in caring for the whole child—mind, body, and heart. By supporting emotional wellness through thoughtful routines, meaningful relationships, and intentional social-emotional learning, we help children navigate winter with confidence and joy.
When children feel emotionally supported, they are better able to learn, grow, and thrive—no matter the season.