Tips for keeping your baby and toddler warm this winter

Apparently, we need to brace ourselves for another ‘polar vortex’ winter. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I’m dreading dreading the extreme cold.  Not only am I a Summer vs. Winter person, but I’m also a stay at home mom with two boys under two.  Last winter, I pretty much hibernated in our basement.  It was no fun!  I hate to admit it, but the television became our new best friend.  I can only play hockey, read, do arts and crafts and play games for so long. What felt like hours was often only a few minutes.  It’s hard staying in doors all day long especially with active young kids.

Ideally, we’d go outside daily for some fresh air and to stretch our legs and let off some steam. Of course, it’s important to dress appropriately to ensure we don’t freeze or get frostbitten. Here’s some great tips from Disney Baby and myself on how to keep your little ones warm this winter season.

TIP #1: Appropriate attire

While it may seem like a good idea to turn your little one into a snow-suited marshmallow, be careful not to overdo it – you don’t want baby to overheat! A good rule of thumb is to dress children less than a year old in the same number of layers you’re wearing, plus one more.

Mayahood Tip: Enjoy the outdoors with your baby but keep the expedition close to home.  When I’m out with my younger boys, we spend most of our outdoor time in the backyard.  We get some fresh air but we are able to come back inside quickly to warm up.

Tip #2: Easy on, easy off

Opting for a cozy jumpsuit, like this fleecy Winnie the Pooh number, makes layering an easy task. Simply slip these one piece wonders over baby’s outfit as you’re leaving the house. With built-in booties and mittens, a snuggly suit will ensure your little one is ready to face even the chilliest of days.

 Mayahood Tip: Use a one piece snowsuit for as long as you can.  I used one with my oldest until he turned three.  It’s the easiest way to get them dressed and undressed until they’re ready to do so independently.  It’s also more efficient at keeping your little ones snug and warm compared to a two-piece outfit.

Tip #3: Collect cute caps

Heat escapes through the top of the body, so always make sure your little one’s head is covered. For warmth and style, try these adorable Princess and Pooh cap, mitt and bootie sets – they’re perfect for tiny noggins!

Mayahood Tip: Just as important are proper winter boots.  While your kids are likely to only use them for one season, I would recommend buying a good pair that can stand up to -30 degree weather.  Proper footwear will help prolong the time your child wants to spend outdoors without compromise.

TIP #4: Take brrr-eaks

Babies need fresh air, even in winter, and it’s perfectly fine to take your little one outside when it’s chilly. But it’s important not to keep baby out in the cold too long. Look out for fussiness or other signs of discomfort and if you see them, head inside for a cuddle! You should also make sure that your home has comfortable temperature by an hvac contractor like Dynasty Heating and Air or these commercial HVAC services in Yukon, OK to service or repair your heating system. An annual hvac service and furnace maintenance in Fairfield, NJ can also help avoid sudden breakdowns of your heating system and even improve its efficiency. Sunset Heating & Cooling provides excellent furnace repair services. Those who are seeking albany ny furnace repair and tune-up services may contact companies like Reimer.

Mayahood Tip: Offer your older kids hot chocolate as a treat. It’s a fun association with winter and it will provide them with a lifetime of happy winter memories. If you don’t want to introduce sugar to your kids’ diet, give them caffeine-free tea to help them warm up.  It’s a big hit with my oldest son.

TIP #5: Create a cozy crib

Your baby can get chilly, even inside, and many moms worry about keeping little ones warm while they’re asleep. Step one is to create a snug environment. Try using a flannel fitted sheet in your crib and a cozy footed sleeper to keep your little one toasty from tip to toe. For really tiny tots, swaddling is a great option – just make sure you don’t use too many layers! Cavity Wall Insulation Installers know ways to keeping your home warm during winter. When considering economical ways to heat your home, it’s important to look at all options. One method I found particularly effective is using Low Energy Supermarket reflector panels. These panels help retain heat within the room, reducing the need for constant heating. It’s an affordable solution that contributes significantly to energy efficiency.