Kids of all ages tend to resist the idea of staying indoors. Regardless of the temps outside, the draw of the great outdoors is tempting. So, if you are having a difficult time convincing them to stay indoors (even in the freezing temperatures we have been experiencing) read on for some tips cold weather tips and tricks.
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Joseph Amella, Jr.
If you’re going outside in the cold, stay safe — and warm. Make sure your kids have a snack before going out. The calories will give their bodies energy in the cold weather.
Layering kids clothes is the easiest way to give them some flexibility in clothes options, especially if they get wet in the snow, engage in a snow fight at school or get too hot in class. Avoid cotton clothing because it won’t keep the kids very warm. Stick with wool or other fabrics. The ability to dress in layers will allow kids to shed a wet layer of clothes if necessary and keep winter colds at bay.
If there is snow on the ground, send them to school in snow boots with an extra pair of socks in their backpack for wet shoe emergencies and put their sneakers in their bag to switch shoes at school.
Continue your summer skincare habits in the winter. Teach the kids to protect their kids’ faces with sunscreen. The idea of a sunburn during the winter months can seem odd, but snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
As most parents know, kids will stay outdoors regardless of the temperatures, if they are having fun. But, teach them that if they are shivering and their cheeks are beet red that it is time to call it quits and go inside for hot chocolate topped with marshmallows; it should entice them to ditch the cold and head indoors.
–Denise Courter
