Growing up in the cold: How weather shapes children’s daily routines
By Cynthia Lodite, September 21, 2026Cold weather can change more than what children wear. It can affect when they wake up, what they eat, how they play and even how they prepare for school.
For many Kenyan families, especially during colder months, mornings can become a struggle. Children may be reluctant to leave warm beds, while parents have to prepare them for school despite the chilly weather.
The cold can also change simple routines that children normally take for granted.
Mornings can become a struggle
Getting children out of bed can take longer when temperatures drop. A child who normally wakes up early may want to stay under the blankets for a few more minutes.
For school-going children, this can make morning preparation feel rushed. Parents may need to give children enough time to dress warmly, eat breakfast and leave home without skipping important parts of their routine.
What children wear also becomes more important. Sweaters, warm socks, jackets and other layers can become part of the morning routine, particularly for children travelling early in the morning.
Play and outdoor activities may change
Cold weather can also affect how children spend their free time.
Some children may spend more time indoors instead of playing outside. This can mean more television, phone use, indoor games or other activities at home.
Parents can help children remain active by finding safe indoor activities such as drawing, reading, puzzles, dancing or simple games that allow them to move around.
Mealtimes may also change. Families may prefer warm foods and drinks such as porridge, soups and other hot meals during colder days.
For children, these small changes can make cold weather feel very different from their usual routine.
Ultimately, growing up in a cold environment teaches children to adjust their daily habits to the weather. With warm clothing, nutritious meals, enough rest and safe opportunities to stay active, families can help children remain comfortable while continuing with their normal routines.