Though winter can be cold, it isn't a time for kids to simply stay indoors. Winter is the time for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, building snow mans and ball fights. The good news is, by following these 10 parent-tested tips, you can keep your kids safe and protected while letting them have their fun in the snow.
1. Pile the clothes
Layering kids' clothes can be a little bit tricky. So many layers will cause them to overheat while too few layers will cause them to be frozen cold. Catherine O'Brien, a research physiologist at the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine suggests layering in a way that clothes will conserve heat but at the same time let heat escape.
To do so, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests letting kids wear one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear given the same environmental conditions. First, let them wear an inner layer that isn't cotton, as it soaks up the sweat, which will speed up heat loss. Then, add two insulating middle layers such as a long-sleeved top and leggings. And third, wrap them up in a wind and waterproof jacket and pants.
2. Keep their hands and feet toasty
Hands and toes become ice cold easily as the body conserves the energy to keep the core warm. To make sure that their hands and feet are comfortable while playing in the snow, cover their hands with insulated and waterproof mittens or gloves and protect the feet by wearing long socks and high-quality boots.
3. Dress them in bright colors or easy-to-spot clothing
It is extremely helpful to dress your kids in easy-to-spot clothing which, if possible, are made of reflective materials. Fox News previously reported about a research by Carnegie Mellon Universty, which said that pedestrians are thrice more likely to be hit by cars in the weeks following the fall season as drivers are still adapting to the change in light.
4. Don't forget the sunscreen
Just because it's cold doesn't mean they don't need protection from the sun. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, people can still get sunburn as the sunlight's UV rays can reflect off the snow. Make sure to choose a sunscreen that is water-resistant, as well as cover all areas that are exposed.
5. Sled only on a clear hill
To make sure that your children do not get into accidents while sledding, make sure to take them to a sledding hill that is free of any objects that they might run into. Only allow them to sled on areas where there are no trees, rocks, posts and cars. Also, to minimize the chances of injury, never allow two or more kids to use a single sled.
6. Make sure they're equipped
When skiing, sledding or snowboarding, make sure that your children wear a helmet and put on their goggles. In addition, make sure that their equipment and gear are according to their size. Footgear that is too small may become painful for them while big ones may increase their risk of falling and slipping.
7. Give them water
Some are unaware that the dry air of winter causes kids to lose water faster. Therefore, make sure that you remind your children to drink water to make sure that they remain hydrated.
8. Know the danger signs
Parents should familiarize themselves with the symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia, so kids can be treated immediately. Frostbite signs include ashy or gray blistered skin on the fingers and toes, as well as on the nose and ears. As for hypothermia, the warning signs to watch out for are slurred speech, shivering and unusual clumsiness.
9. Warn them about unsafe activities
Licking frozen flagpoles and touching other frozen objects when skin is wet can result in the skin ripping off causing severe damage, warns Holly Benjamin, a pediatric sports medicine specialist at the University of Chicago.
10. Closely monitor kids with asthma
Kids find it fun to see their breath in the air, but for kids with asthma, doing so can provoke and aggravate the condition as the dry air can further dry the lungs. A resident nurse, Amy Burack, of the Children's Hospital Boston, suggests talking to your pediatrician to discuss whether your children will need a preventive inhaler or another medication.
It is also advised to let kids use a neck warmer, so air can be warmed up before it is inhaled. Also, be aware of the signs of an approaching asthma attach which include chest pain, dizziness and shortness of breath. If any of these happen, take the children inside and keep them warm.
It's may be a bit difficult to keep kids safe during the cold, winter months but it can be done. By simply following these tips, your kids can enjoy the snow without you having to worry.
