The frigid weather is prompting several Western Slope schools to keep kids inside.

Day after day with no outdoor recess might sound like no fun, but teacher and administration are finding ways to entertain and prevent cabin fever.

"We’ve been inside for probably a dozen days," Corey Hafey, principal at Appleton Elementary, said.

The cold weather is responsible for keeping the kids cooped up.  If it’s below five degrees break time doesn't include fresh air.

Barbara Williams teaches third grade. She says, "In the last eight years this is the most I’ve ever done indoor recess."

Fifth grader Holly Humphrey doesn't mind. "I like the games that we play inside," Holly said. But she does admit she's ready for it to warm up.

And so do many of the teachers at Appleton that are providing fun activities for the kids.

"Teachers give up their lunch times or break times to help facilitate, just watching 450 kids," Principal Hafey said.

"After a few days of the cold they get a little stir crazy,” Williams explained. “We’ve been able to go out for five minutes at a time because it’s been so cold that’s all they allow. Those five minutes mean a lot to them."

If kids choose to go outside as the day gets warmer administration is making sure they're prepared.

"We have a coat closet that helps if they need a coat, hat, or gloves,” Principal Hafey said. “We try to make sure they're bundled up enough to go outside."

Inversion in the valley isn't drastic enough to impact recess, but many schools, like Appleton elementary, are cautious of the combination of cold temps and air pollution.