Cold Weather Tips

There are many fun and exciting activities for children to participate in during the winter months. By properly preparing for the cold weather we can help to keep our children safe and warm while they are playing outside in the snow.
Here are a few tips to keep your children warm when it is cold outside.

• "Make sure your kids have a snack before going out. The calories will give them energy in the cold weather".
• Avoid sunburns by applying sunscreen to your child's face. We sometimes forget that "snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun's ultraviolet rays." Sunburns are possible, even in January.
• Dress children warmly by using layers of clothes. "If the top layer gets wet, they can peel off some clothes down to a dry layer".
• Waterproof pants and jackets are great for a top layer because they don't allow the wetness to seep in. Don't forget the warm socks, hats and mittens.

For more tips on keeping your children safe, warm and entertained in the cold weather visit kidshealth.com

Adapted from Kidshealth.com Reviewed by Steven Dowshen, MD September, 2006