Schools leaving windows open during winter

[Helenj1977]

I have 2 children at school and my eldest has been told that windows will be open during the winter, they can wear coats. My nephew is in reception and my sil has been told the same.

I get why but seriously how can that be good for them?? I can't imagine them learning much if they're sat shivering.

Regardless of covid, I like windows open even in winter. So much fresher. I used to open windows on buses and trains and get rude looks from others but I think it's filthy to sit close with other passengers and no ventilation

@Char2015 coughs and high temperatures are not caused by fresh air.

You do realise that the purpose of this is to try to protect the children from COVID, don't you?

DS is already commenting about being cold in the classroom.
I suffer from cold hands & a cold draft would make it worse.

Doing fine motor skill work (like writing) in cold temperatures is big part of why I developed RSI in first place.

[quote ArticulateYourLife]@Char2015 coughs and high temperatures are not caused by fresh air.[/quote]
You are right... But they are caused when sitting in cold temperatures but you actually knew what I meant so hardly worth me having to say it.

5 year olds spend all day outdoors in forest schools in Scandinavian winters, and 90% of Mumsnet goes on and on about how they have it right, we start reception too early etc.

But as soon as we leave a window ajar, our tiny darlings are apparently too delicate to make it?

The open window should reduce viral spread not increase coughs and colds. Children need to be dressed appropriately including thermals, and of course if the teacher or any children have issues such as Reynauds that make cold a problem, that should be addressed. But seriously, schools really can't win on here right now...

No they are not.

Respiratory disorders can be made worse by cold temperatures )but they can also be made worse by stuffe central heated rooms), also carpel tunnel syndrome and possibly hypertension. But not a high temperature or cough not caused by an underlying respirtatory disorder.

This is why I have invested in some fleece lined grey hoodies (school colours) so they can wear them in class.

I guarantee you that my DS will hardly wear it as he’s constantly hot!

@Char2015 - coughs and high temperatures are not caused by sitting in cold temperatures either. They are caused by viruses.

The cold doesn't cause coughs or high temperatures, viruses do. Sitting in cold air does not make you ill, that is a myth. The only illness you can get from being cold is hypothermia and that means you were inappropriately dressed for the conditions. The heating will be on, it won't be that cold. Send the children in in layers they will be fine. Open windows is one of our main protective measures.

Just get some warm clothes that look like indoor clothes, easily done.

This is way down on my list of inconvenience as a result of COVID.

Basically schools can’t win. Some parent is always going to be annoyed with every single decision.

I can also imagine the uproar if a school
Said they will keep windows closed as too cold
🙄

I think it is a good idea to be honest

@TweeterandtheMonkeyman

Out of interest, does anyone know if open windows actually help reduce the spread of Covid in classrooms?

Yes. They’ve been banging on about the importance of ventilation for ages. Open windows will be a good move. Be thankful that they do open as so many are painted shut!

I think its great the children are outside and have the windows open. This is the best virus control measure going. I do wonder if uniform needs relaxing or changing to support this though. Particularly girls shoes.

@BooseysMom

I know, I thought the same. The middle of winter and they're all set there shivering! Ridiculous

They aren't going to let them sit there and shiver are they ffs. They will be trying to encourage ventilation instead of the usual clammy stuffy classrooms. If you're worried about it then send your child with extra layers on.

[quote Inastatus]@Char2015 - coughs and high temperatures are not caused by sitting in cold temperatures either. They are caused by viruses.[/quote]
And viruses spread more easily in cold settings, therefore causing coughs and high temps in those that catch the virus. It's pretty easy stuff.

We’ve been advised to put them in multiple layers including a gilet.

All our boys insist on wearing shorts all year round, even in snow. A few years back, one child's mum insisted he wear trousers in January, and he would smuggle in shorts and get changed in the loos.

I'm ok with it tbh. I'll just put some extra layers on mine if she finds it cold.

Can't they just wear a vest and a jumper, and put on their coat if they are cold?

But what's the alternative? The least they can do is ensure the room is ventilated.

Our school is doing this too but the kids have been told they can wear whatever they want to stay warm (Scotland is usually easier on uniform anyway though).