While the winter season could be a magical time for some, it can also be stressful for new parents. This comes with the trickiness of keeping a baby safe amidst the cold.
Caring For Babies During Winter
It is safe for babies to go outside during the winter. However, there are some cautions that need to be exercised.
For one, these outdoor trips should be limited when it comes to duration and distance, as babies are incapable of regulating their own body temperature yet. Moreover, young children, toddlers, and newborns do not have much body fat and are generally smaller in terms of size. This means that they are more quick to lose heat compared to adults.
With this, it is crucial for parents and babies to avoid temperatures that go below -15 degrees Fahrenheit. Both wind chill and wind speeds should also always be checked. Outdoor trips should be limited to just 15 minutes or less.
It is also important for parents to know the warning signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Parents should watch out for shivering, shaking, and/or grayish or reddish skin.
Similarly, parents should also regularly check their child to make sure that these babies are not too hot. Overheating could lead to discomfort, a rash, or even an increased SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) risk.
According to the National Institutes of Health, SIDS risk goes up during colder months due to the heavy coverings that may make babies overheat. With this, it is important to keep the baby cool and comfortable, avoiding heavy blankets and clothing, and adhering to guidelines for safe sleeping.
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Baby Clothes During Winter
Babies should be clothed depending on what they will be doing and where they are. For instance, if they are to stay inside the house and if the house is warm, one layer of clothes may be sufficient, though mittens or socks could be included to keep the extremities of the baby warm.
For a stroll or snow exposure, several thin layers of clothes could help keep the baby dry and warm. Wearing a hat may also keep their head protected. Using waterproof coats or snowsuits is also a good option if the baby will be exposed to such elements. It is also recommended that the baby wear socks, booties, and gloves.
When it comes to car clothing, things may appear tricky. It is generally advised by the American Academy of Pediatrics that winter coats and snowsuits should be avoided when the baby is strapped in. This is for the sake of car safety.
In this case, close-fitting and thin layers of clothes may work. A warmer top, as well as pants, could also work. Mittens, booties, hats, and socks are also advised. When the baby is positioned securely in the seat, a blanket or coat can be placed over the straps rather than between the straps and the baby.
For bedtime, some footed pajamas or bodysuits would be a good option. For younger babies sleeping in a cooler room, sleep sacks or swaddles can also work.
However, parents should keep in mind that babies should not use blankets before turning 12 months old.
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