Russia's approach to childhood resilience: cold exposure and immunity-boosting practices

In Russian preschools, children not only explore and play but they are also exposed to practices designed to boost their immune systems. In biting weather, toddlers, clad only in underwear, are taken outside and doused with cold water.

While this concept may startle many, in Russia it's closer to the norm, accessible only with parental consent. Children are accustomed to frigid temperatures from a young age to equip them for future cold encounters better. As a result, they fall ill less often, don't succumb to frostbite, and show more enthusiasm for outdoor play.

A video from a preschool in Krasnoyarsk, showing children in their undergarments patiently queuing for their turn to be splashed with water, might alarm many parents. In the backdrop, substantial snowdrifts suggest low temperatures. Still, as soon as the container is emptied, the tots return to the preschool, faces beaming with broad smiles and emitting squeals. Despite the chilling temperatures, the children derive immense pleasure from the practice. Far from evoking tears, most children seem thrilled by the prospect of a frosty bath. More prevalently, this toughening process is observed across various towns in the area.

This preschool in Krasnoyarsk utilises such activities to bolster and toughen up children from an early stage. At times, the external temperature dips below -20 degrees Celsius. Even though participating in these practices is not obligatory, most parents endorse it. The children undergo varying practices aimed at fortifying their resilience against harsh weather. They also partake in intensive physical exercises and frequent sauna visits, training their bodies to adapt to varying conditions.

Such a hardened breed of children invariably enjoys better health. They fall prey to illnesses less frequently as the autumn-winter season strikes, their immune systems having been rigorously prepared under monitored conditions. A crucial role in this hardening process is also played by a balanced diet and sufficient rest. It isn't necessary to dive headfirst into winter swimming; even playing outdoors, in the snow, serves as a delightful and efficient method to harden the body. In this journey, the first stride is undeniably the toughest, but with time, frolicking in water becomes an enjoyable pastime, which carries numerous benefits for overall health.