The week's best parenting advice: April 19, 2022

Let your kids play in the rain, squirmy pandemic kids return to classrooms, and more

A child in the rain.
(Image credit: Illustrated | iStock)

1. Let your kids play in the rain

There are a lot of great reasons to let your kids play in the rain, writes Abi Berwager Schreier in Romper. Rain play teaches kids a valuable life lesson: "Even if your current situation in life is difficult and rainy, learn to still be happy, dance, and have fun," says pediatrician Daniel Ganjian. It also helps them develop physical skills, because "they have to manage risks and evaluate different activities, like knowing when not to slip and how to avoid a big puddle that they might fall into," writes Schreier. Contrary to popular thought, you can't catch a cold from the rain — colds are from viruses. And while cold weather can lower your immune system, making children more susceptible to viruses, exercise actually boosts the immune system, so just make sure everyone dresses for the elements. "There truly is no such thing as bad weather — just bad clothing."

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Stephanie H. Murray

Stephanie H. Murray is a public policy researcher turned freelance writer.