Take more than a million city public school kids, mix in tens of thousands of private and parochial school students, add a day off for snow, and you've got the recipe for loads of fun. NY1's Lindsey Christ filed the following report.

Young New Yorkers hit the hills, steps and sidewalks of Manhattan with gusto on Wednesday, having had 24 hours advance notice to plan their snow day activities. Mayor Michael Bloomberg said his early call was out of concern that school would let out right at the height of the storm, but kids just looked at it as an early present.

"We found out yesterday at lunch that we had a snow day and we were all like screaming, we were so excited," said one city student.

"I'm having a lot of fun! We came here to sled today and ever since we got here, it's wow! I absolutely love the snow and no school!" shouted another city student.

The advance warning also gave the Parks Department extra time to prepare to play host.

"We've got free sleds that we lend to people, free hot chocolate and hot cider and our staff is out here making sure kids are sledding safely. It's just our way of turning lemons to lemonade. The kids are out exercising, they are so excited, it's so great," said Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe.

But snow days are not all hot chocolate and snowmen. Deciding if and when to make the call involves balancing concerns over safety, academics, economics and old-fashioned courtesy.

There was only one snow day last year, and many teachers and parents were frustrated to get just a couple of hours notice. But on Wednesday, when the heavy snow didn't start coming down until the afternoon, some parents said the mayor had decided too early this year.

"I am a per diem worker, so I don't get paid today. So for me, it's not a good day, because I don't make any money. It's fun for my kids, because they get to play with mommy but it's not fun for me because I don't get a check," said one parent.

Other parents arranged to work from home with a few breaks, of course.

"I am technically working from home right now. But it is the lunch hour," said one parent.

Some teachers even joined students in praising the decision to call off class.

"I am really enjoying having the day off because I work for the Department of Ed. And I am watching my nephew today and we are having fun with the music and a great time," said one city teacher.

While parents may be divided on the wisdom of the snow day, students all say they were thrilled to have the time to play outside.