Oh, the weather outside is getting frightful – but is your child fully dressed for the elements on the way to child care? Even the few minutes that your tiny tot is out in the cold air between your home, the car and your child care facility can expose them to an array of problems. Children are particularly susceptible to changes in temperature, so it’s important to keep them fully buttoned-up and snuggled-in when you’re getting them where they need to go. Here are some tips to keep them toasty warm this winter.
1. Keep Inner Layers of Clothing Thin
It’s the change in temperature which can be problematic – you don’t want children getting too sweaty when they’re inside and then hopping out to the car and immediately getting chilled. A thinner inner layer of clothing allows your toddler or preschooler’s temperature to self-regulate while they’re inside. Throw on a sweater for fall days and add more layers for when it gets really cold.
2. Keeping Infants Warm
For infants, especially newborns, it is much more difficult for them to maintain their body temperature. It is important to limit their exposure to the cold weather. If you must go out into the cold, you can help to keep them warm with hats, socks, gloves, and bundling them up in blankets or a winter coat. Keep in mind it is not safe to put your child into a car seat while wearing their winter coat because this increases the risk of serious injury in the event of a car accident.
3. Protect Tiny Fingers and Toes
Yes, it absolutely can be difficult to get your tot into gloves and an added layer of socks, but it’s worth the effort! Tiny fingers and toes can quickly get cold and take quite some time to warm up. This is particularly true of feet, which is where a great deal of our heat escapes.
4. Avoid Cotton Clothing
Yes, cotton is super-soft and breathable, but it also can trap sweat, rain or snow close to the body — causing some deep chills if you’re not careful. If your little sweetie gets sweaty or wet, then change them into dry clothes right away.
Finally, it’s always good to be sure that the winter clothes you have for your kiddos still fit! Even though you “just bought it last month”, it can be surprising how quickly children outgrow their clothing. Make it a regular plan to ensure that the facility has an extra change of clothing for your precious little bundle . . . just in case.
Ready to find the perfect childcare facility for your child? Contact Creative Corner Child Care Center today to learn more about our nurturing and creative world.
