As the temperatures drop, children need extra clothing to stay warm and healthy. Here are some tips to make sure your child stays safe while playing outside during the winter months!
- Dress your child in layers: Children should dress in layers to stay warm, and they should change out of wet clothing immediately. Don’t forget boots, gloves or mittens, and a hat! These clothing items will keep your child’s body as covered and as warm as possible.
- Watch for danger signs: Frostbite and hypothermia are two dangerous winter conditions that can occur in children while they play in the cold. Signs of frostbite include pale, grey, or blistered skin most commonly on the fingers, ears, nose, or toes. If you think your child has frostbite, place the affected area under lukewarm (not hot) water and rub the skin gently to prevent damage. Unlike frostbite, hypothermia may be life threatening. The most recognized sign of hypothermia is shivering, but children with more severe forms of hypothermia may not shiver. Instead, children with moderate or severe hypothermia may have slurred speech, slow breathing, and drowsiness. If you think your child has moderate or severe hypothermia, wrap him or her in a blanket and call 911 immediately.
- Take breaks from the cold: While they are having fun outside, children may not realize that they are getting too cold. Depending on your child and how he or she is dressed for the weather, it may help to take breaks inside in order to warm up. You can also use breaks from the cold to offer your child warm drinks or soup, as it is important to keep your child hydrated during the drier winter months.
Click here to read more about how to keep your child safe in cold weather!