Winter naturally encourages us to retreat indoors, but time outside during the colder months is just as important - if not more so. Fresh air, natural light, and movement support physical health, emotional wellbeing, and overall development year-round. With the right clothing, winter becomes an opportunity for exploration, resilience, and calm rather than something to endure.

At MamaOwl we believe winter dressing should support outdoor life, not limit it. Thoughtfully made wool layers allow us all to stay warm, dry, and comfortable while continuing to enjoy the benefits of being outside.

Enjoying winter outdoors starts with dressing appropriately, and the most effective approach is layering - especially with wool.

The Power of Layering with Wool

Wool is naturally temperature-regulating, meaning it keeps the body warm without causing overheating. It breathes, wicks moisture away from the skin, and insulates even when damp, making it ideal for active children who move between stillness and play. Unlike synthetic fibres, wool adapts to the body and its environment, providing steady comfort throughout the day.

Our own brand SISKIN has been carefully designed using high quality natural materials with simple yet functional details. Our Merino Wool is beautifully soft, and our popular Merino Wool & Silk layers can be worn directly against the skin. Suitable for even the tiniest of newborns and available for the whole family.

A good winter layering system is easy to put together, and this concept is as simple to follow as 1,2,3….

1) First a soft wool base layer worn next to the skin. This regulates your core temperature.

2) Next a warm knit sweater or cardigan and trousers for insulation. This we call the mid layer.

3) Then your weatherproof outerwear to protect from wind and rain.

Extras) Adding in accessories when needed, like wool hats, scarves, and mittens. These help retain heat while remaining breathable and comfortable. And of course weather appropriate footwear like our Rubber or Leather Wool Lined boots.

For more information on weather appropriate dressing for kids, you can read our blog post ' The Art of Layering Kids : Whatever the Weather'.

Choosing natural fibres also means choosing longevity. Wool garments are durable, timeless, and designed to be worn, repaired, and passed on - supporting a slower, more thoughtful way of living. Not to mention that once they have reached the end of their life, these fibres can return to the earth, naturally and safely without contributing to landfill.

Why Being Outdoors Matters in Winter

Outdoor play offers a powerful foundation for healthy growth. Physical activity, including running, climbing, and balancing builds strength, coordination, and cardiovascular health, while exposure to daylight supports Vitamin D production, bone health, and immune function. Fresh air and movement also help regulate sleep, making evenings calmer and rest more restorative.

Mentally and emotionally, nature has a grounding effect. Time outdoors is known to reduce stress levels, improve mood, and support focus - particularly for children who struggle with restlessness or overstimulation. Winter landscapes, quieter and slower than summer, offer space to pause, observe, and breathe.

Outdoor environments also encourage creativity and cognitive development. Unstructured play with natural materials - mud, sticks, stones, leaves - invites imagination, storytelling, and problem-solving. Navigating uneven ground, cold weather, or new challenges helps children build resilience and confidence, while shared adventures strengthen social skills like cooperation, communication, and empathy.

Perhaps most importantly, regular time outside fosters a deep connection to nature. Children who grow up exploring the outdoors often develop curiosity, respect, and care for the environment - values that stay with them long into adulthood.

Winter: A Season for Curiosity, Bravery, and Calm

Winter teaches valuable lessons. Children learn self-sufficiency by dressing themselves for the weather, courage by facing cold winds or new experiences, and confidence by overcoming small challenges - whether climbing a tree or holding a ladybird. Nature also offers space to unwind. A quiet walk, time spent watching waves, or simply sitting under bare trees can be deeply calming in an otherwise busy world.

And of course, the outdoors invites mess. Muddy boots, wet trousers, and rosy cheeks are signs of a day well spent. Letting go of constant cleanliness allows children to experience freedom, spontaneity, and joy.

 Winter doesn’t have to be a season of limitation. With warmth, comfort, and the right layers, it can be a time for exploration, creativity, and connection - to nature, to each other, and to ourselves.  

So, wrap up warmly, step outside, and let winter work its quiet magic.