A List of the Winter Clothing Essentials for Your Little Munchkin

Regardless of the weather, what most kids want is to spend time outdoor. Even if it is scorching hot or the temperatures are below zero, chances are your little one will want to play outside. That’s great for their development and health, but as a parent, you need to ensure your kid is always dressed properly for the weather. And while summertime clothing is easy to get right, dressing your kid properly during wintertime can be a bit tricky as you need to ensure he doesn’t get too cold or too warm.

So, once your baby becomes a toddler, his inner thermostat starts working. In other words, the kid will feel the temperature changes the same way that you do. For example, if you feel cold wearing just a T-shirt, chances are, your kid is cold as well. For that very reason, stock up on sweatshirts and jumpers for kids so that you can keep your little one warm, cozy and stylish all winter long.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

Winter is an especially fun time for kids so they want to stay outside as long as possible and play in the snow. When your child is ready to explore the winter wonderland, dressing him in layers is a must. This way you can ensure he stays warm and dry. For example, for the first layer use thermal underwear, sock liners, glove liners, and wool socks. For a second layer opt for a turtleneck, and any of the jumpers for kids you bought at the beginning of the season. The third layer should include a water-resistant jacket, mittens, a hat, and waterproof boots. You can choose a scarf or a neck gaiter which is easier to use. If there is snow, make sure his hands are kept dry. Also, playtime in such conditions should be limited for not more than 30 minutes (if temperatures are not below zero).

A Safe and Fun Snow Day

Even if your child is not a toddler, he still needs to be dressed in layers. Older kids can prolong their stay outdoors even if they are cold as that’s normal if they are playing in the snow. However, make sure to check their hands regularly and ensure they don’t stay in the cold for too long. If you have heard about hypothermia, you know that playtime in the snow can easily become dangerous. It is an extreme lowering of the body’s temperature that can lead to frostbite very quickly. Frostbite usually occurs on the extremities like toes, fingers, nose, ears, cheeks. If your kid claims his skin is aching or tingling or if he starts to shiver, mumble or slur his speech – get him to a warm place immediately. Take off any wet clothes that he has on him and wrap him in warm blankets. Give him a warm drink, and if he still feels the same and his skin appears to be frozen, seek medical help as soon as possible.

Make Sure You Don’t Go Overboard with the Layers

When dressing their kid for cold temperatures, many parents overdo it. Kids are very active when playing outside – they run and play in the snow, which means they can easily become warm from exertion. If you notice that your little one is sweating while still playing outside, take him in and remove some layers of his clothing, specifically those that are wet from the sweat. Although they might be old enough to know when they feel too cold or too warm, you still need to make sure they are safe from harm.

Safety Tips for Cold Weather

Outside activities and exercise are essential for kids to develop and learn new things, however, you as a parent should always take precautions.

• Supervise play areas. It is important to check the play area and its surroundings before you let your little one there. Sliding in the street may seem fun but being near cars where the roads are slick and the visibility is limited is dangerous. Before you let your child out, make sure he stays in a safe zone.
• Check their exposure. Too often kids are so into their play that they forget that they are cold or too hot. So, make sure you check your child if he is cold or wet. Check his hands and feet as well.
• Establish a time limit. If you let your kid play outside on the snow, chances are you will have a hard time persuading him to go home. But this doesn’t mean you should let him play all day. Establish a time limit beforehand. Get him inside for a certain period of time and then let him go outside again after he warms up. While he is inside, give him something warm to drink like tea or hot chocolate.