We all go through it. Cold weather rolls around and hunkering down inside is much more appealing than braving the elements — especially with a little one in tow. We hope that the following tips will help encourage you to get outside with your little ones a little more this winter.
Mini-You
Layering is a technique meant to be mastered.
It’s important as an adult to dress in layers when engaging in cold weather outdoor activities — so why would that be any different for your child? Little walkers should be dressed like you.
- Good boots (but not too heavy)
- Warm wool socks
- Next to skin base layers
- Insulated mid-layer
- Weather resistant shell
- Mittens
- Ear covering hats
Sometimes it can be hard to keep mittens on, but large socks can aid in this matter. They are large enough that they fit over the mittens and long enough that they can be tucked up into the sleeve of your child’s jacket.
That being said, there is always a risk of overdressing your little one. When your child isn’t exposed to the elements, you may want to leave the shell, snow pants and hat off to avoid your child overheating. Once you arrive to your destination and are read to set out into the cold, you can then throw on these outer layers to keep your child toasty and protected.
Keep Them Close
The paved sidewalks can often get a little repetitive. Change things up a bit by alternating stroller walks with trail walks and leave the stroller behind. And if your little one isn’t quite big enough to keep up (or able to walk), give a woven wrap or soft structured carrier a shot. Just make sure that your babe is snuggled in tight with their face visible.
With their legs likely dangling, be careful about what boots you put on their feet. If they’re too heavy, they can actually cause your child to lose circulation which could lead to your child’s body temperature becoming dangerously low.
Use Your Stroller
Depending on the age of your child, this likely seems like a no-brainer. However, many moms are overwhelmed at the idea of trying to navigate their child’s mobile seat when it comes to snow (or ice) standing in between them and their destination.
The thing to keep in mind is that a stroller provides the framework for creating an extra barrier between your child and the elements. By tossing a heavy blanket or clear weather shield over the stroller, you can help keep the wind out and the warmth in.
