6 ways kids can play while staying safe in winter weather

It's a winter wonderland outside and the snow is calling your kids to come outside and play! But beware of the dangers that face your kids when the temperatures are sub-zero or single digit. It's important to be aware of the temperatures before sending your kids out to enjoy the snow, sub-zero and single-digit temperatures are not safe for kids to be out in, even for short periods.

“When temperatures reach 10 degrees or below, parents should really keep their children inside,” says Amy Schopperth MHA, BSN, RN, TCRN, trauma program manager at Dayton Children’s “It’s rare that we say don’t go outside and play, but in these sorts of single-digit, or even negative degrees events, just a few minutes outside can put a child at risk.” 

When the temperature allows outside play follow these six tips to keep kids warm: 

1. Bring on the layers. Dressing your child in multiple layers is the best way to keep them protected. Here's how to do that: 

• First, start with a thin layer of cotton, wool or a synthetic fabric that traps heat.  

• Add another thin sweater/sweatshirt, that isn’t too bulky under a jacket or snow suit. 

• Finish with waterproof pants and a jacket or a snowsuit. 

• Double up on socks and add waterproof boots. 

• Finish off with a hat and gloves or mittens for little ones.  

2. Keep clothes dry. Wet, cold clothing can put your child at risk for hypothermia. Change  socks and mittens when they get wet. 

3. Cover the "cold zones". Ears, cheeks, fingers and toes are "at risk areas" that should stay covered! These body regions are the most susceptible to frostbite. 

4. Start with a snack. A healthy snack will fuel  your child, giving them energy and increasing their body heat while they play in the cold weather.

5. Don't skip the sunscreen! Even in the snowy weather, sunscreen is important. Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before venturing out and remember to re-apply as needed.   

6. Check in often.  Every 15 to 20 minutes, check to make sure your child isn’t too cold and doesn’t have any wet clothing on. Bring your child in for breaks periodically to have them warm up and change into dry clothes.  

more winter weather tips

Keeping kids safe is a year-round activity! When there's cold, ice and snow, there's plenty of winter safety tips to learn about that can keep your kids protected. We hope that you and your family stay safe and warm while enjoying time outside!