When it’s freezing cold outside, you still have to find ways to entertain your little ones. Sometimes, you just want to stay inside and have some fun with your kids in the house.
But if you’re anything like me, despite the dropping temps and a snow covered ground, you still want to get your kiddos outside once in a while to get some fresh air in order to keep them active throughout the winter.
But there are several factors that you need to consider in order to keep your little ones safe from the cold, ice, and snow.
Read on to learn about six tips I like to follow to keep my kids safe in the snow (and when they’re back in the house).
Tip #1: Review the Lay of the Land
If you are sending your toddler outside to play, be sure to go over the lay of the land. Often, snow covers rocks and other hard or even sharp objects around your home.
If you remind your toddler about what is where, they will be more conscientious of where they should play and what is around them!
Tip #2: Cover Exposed Areas
It’s great if you are taking your toddler out to play during winter months, but it can get really cold! Always looks your child over before they head out the door to inspect any exposed skin.
Waterproof gloves should be worn, as well as wool (not cotton) scarves. Children should always wear a warm hat that covers their ears.
In some cases, a winter face mask is appropriate, to protect their faces from getting red and chapped (or even frostbite on their nose).
Add layers underneath their clothing as well, like a turtleneck or a pair of thermals for added warmth and comfort.
Tip #3: Don’t Skip the Sun Protection
Just because it’s cold outside, doesn’t mean that you should skip the sunscreen! In fact, snow can reflect about 85% of the sun’s rays. Apply a layer of SPF 30 (or higher) on your toddler’s face, ears, and neck to protect them.
You can even keep their lips moist and shielded by swiping on a coat of SPF Chapstick, or even some Vaseline. This will prevent their skin from getting red, drying out and getting damaged from the sun’s rays!
Tip #4: Check for Frostbite
While it’s great to play outside, some days may just be too chilly or windy. If your child insists on going outside for a short amount of time, it’s wise to check their gloves or mittens to ensure they are staying dry (same with their boots and socks), and that there are no signs of frostbite.
How do you know that your child is getting frostbite? They will complain of numbness, tingling, or burning on their body. You will notice redness as well, but not always.
Sometimes the skin will look gray-blue or gray-yellow.
Be sure to look over the frostbite “hot spots”, which are the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin. If you suspect that your child has gotten frostbite, seek medical attention right away.
Tip #5: Always Follow the Discomfort Rule
Always tell your children that playing outdoors in the cold and snow can be fun, but as soon as they begin to get uncomfortable (or you do), it’s time to come inside to warm up and change into new clothes!
Oftentimes, toddlers will resist telling you how they are feeling because they enjoy exploring their outdoor environment, so go with your gut and when it gets too cold for you, it is definitely too cold for them.
Tip #6: Run A Humidifier
When you’ve had all the fun outside and it’s time to get your little ones indoors, your job of keeping them safe and healthy isn’t over yet! Consider getting a humidifier for your baby or toddler’s room. It’s something I do with my own kids, and I have to say I’m a big fan.
A good humidifier will help restore the proper level of moisture in the room, making the air feel fresher and crisper. It will also help eliminate germs and bacteria that are caused when a room is too dry, which is definitely good news for your little one.
Winter can be beautiful, but it can also be cold and dangerous. While you want to promote playing outdoors and advocate a healthy, active lifestyle, the safety of your toddler should be your main priority!
Kate Trout is the author behind Maternity Glow, A New Mom’s Guide to Figuring it All Out. She’s a coffee addict, wine drinker, and cheese lover. Oh, and she’s also Mom to the two cutest little kids.
Luise says
Even Toddler or Infant all need to take care as they are very sensitive in all environments.Thank you for the article.
Flo Mueller says
I am so happy that you mentioned sun protection. It mortifies me that there are some people who are under the impression that you’re safe from the heat of the sun if it’s hiding behind the clouds. Our little ones should always wear sunscreen whenever we take them outside! Whether it’s spring or winter is irrelevant.
mumkid says
Thanks for these ideas. I’m usually scared when my kids want to go out during winter. I’ve never thought of applying sunscreen not to mention the frostbite. ill now be much more comfortable with them when winter knocks in.