With the promise of sledding, snowman building and ice skating, winter is an exciting time for energetic and playful kids. To keep your child safe from bitter temperatures, snow and ice, you need to understand how to dress him. Appropriate outwear ensures a safe, healthy and warm winter playtime.
Winter Coat
Choose a coat that resists water and wind. A comfortable wool or down coat provides protection from the bitter cold but does not quite protect from moisture. On the other hand, a hard-shell or soft-shell coat provides protection from wind, water and cold temperatures. A hard-shell coat has a stiff outer layer that keeps water out but does not provide much breathability. A more flexible soft-shell coat features a soft and stretchy outer layer that provides excellent breathability and moderate insulation. For a proper fit, make sure your child's middle is covered when she raises her hands above her head. If her stomach peeks, opt for a longer style. Similarly, the sleeves should reach just past the wrists when her arms are extended.
Scarf or Neck Gaiter
Even if your child's winter coat has a high collar, consider adding a scarf or neck gaiter. Although scarves keep the neck warm and protected, the ends can get caught. A neck gaiter is a safer option, because it does not have loose ends. Simply place the cuff of warm fabric around the neck and adjust to fit as necessary. Both scarves and neck gaiters keep the neck warm but can also be pulled up around the lower face for extra protection from the cold.
Gloves
When selecting gloves, carefully consider your child's winter activities. If he plays in the snow, a thick pair of waterproof gloves are necessary. Otherwise, opt for a pair of fleece or cotton gloves, which are comfortable but provide adequate protection on bitterly cold days. If your child approves, opt for mittens instead of gloves. Because mittens allow air to flow around the fingers, they help keep hands warmer.
Hat
A proper winter hat protects not only the the head, but also the ears and face. If possible, choose a hat with ear flaps to cover the ears and cheeks. The hat should be large enough to cover the forehead, crown and back of the neck. To ensure the hat stays in place on a younger kids, select one that ties under the chin.
Boots
Waterproof boots or snow boots are absolutely essential for a child's safety during the winter. Winter footwear not only protects feet from the cold and snow, but also provides traction on slippery surfaces. Boots should be resistant to water. Although they should be snug, they should not fit too tight. In fact, the Reader's Digest website says that "too-tight boots constrict blood flow, causing feet to become even colder." Underneath the boots, wear a thick pair of moisture-wicking socks, which are available at most footwear and outdoor stores.
Snow Pants
If your child plays in the snow, a pair of waterproof snow pants is absolutely necessary. Just like a winter coat, snow pants protect from both cold and moisture. Choose hard-shell snow pants that do not allow moisture or blustery winds to seep through the layers. Preferably, opt for pants with a high waist and/or suspenders; these extra features help keep the pants in place for proper protection.
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