I worry about taking my baby out in the cold. What should I use or dress her in to protect her from the weather?
It’s all about the layering!
The base layer is essential because it creates insulation that will prevent a wind chill and enable core temperature stability. Babies and toddlers lose heat faster than adults and therefore are especially susceptible to the cold. The base layer should be a comfortable fabric for infants and should wick away sweat and moisture from older children who are more prone to sweating. Wool is a great option for the base layer because it’s comfortable and can insulate when wet. If there is a diaper blowout or a lot of drool, the infant will still be shielded from the cold. Synthetics are a good option for an active older child who may complain about being too hot under all those layers while running around. A fleece mid-layer will build heat and entrap the body’s natural core temperature. An outer waterproof shell will act as a windbreaker and keep your child dry in the snow or rain. Protecting those hands and feet will thwart the risk of frostbite, which is higher for children’s tiny fingers and toes.
Make sure to build extra time into the routine for the process of taking this bulky gear on and off. When traveling by car, find time to preheat the vehicle. Take off the outer layer of clothing prior to strapping your child in, and bring a blanket to lay atop the straps. Car seats should be buckled snuggly to your child’s body without the extra bulk of outerwear. When walking outside, use a stroller rain shield to minimize wind chill and keep your baby nice and dry.
