WARM AND SAFE: OUR WINTER SAFETY GUIDE
How to protect little adventurers in the frosty season
Winter presents endless possibilities for exploring with our little ones. Outdoor adventures not only enhance a child’s development, but also offer delightful moments to create memories. We all thrive when surrounded by the great outdoors, especially during the enchanting winter months. Engaging in activities like exploring nature, sledding, skating, making snow angels, and catching snowflakes, brings joy and contributes significantly to mental well-being and holistic development.
Our Birdie sitters adore outdoor experiences with children. We have rounded up some of their top sitter tips and reminders to ensure the magic of winter play is cherished with safety in mind.
Sunscreen:
Sunscreen in winter? Absolutely. Due to the snow’s reflective surface the sun can cause sunburn even in the winter, so don’t forget to lather up on any exposed skin before heading out.
Car seat safety:
For the little ones still in car seats, opt for thinner layers and avoid bulky jackets on the drive, it interferes with the proper fit of the car seat straps. To keep your kids warm, bring along some blankets.
Hydration matters:
Despite the chill, staying hydrated during winter activities is key. Encourage regular water breaks to keep your little ones refreshed and hydrated. And don’t forget about yourself!
Dress for the weather:
Start with a snug base layer, it sets the stage for a comfortable outdoor adventure. Follow up with multiple warm layers and water resistant winter coats and pants, and of course warm boots. Mitts hats and cozy socks are necessary to keep those extremities warm. And a handy tip; keep a few pairs of those thin little gloves on hand for snack time, so fingers don’t get cold during breaks.
Car care kit:
Prepare for the unexpected by keeping a well-equipped first aid kit, a shovel, and essential supplies in case you get stuck while traveling to an adventure. It never hurts to keep a few snacks on hand for emergencies as well.
Teach safety:
Empower your little ones to help define the rules and boundaries before engaging in outdoor play. Make sure to identify icy areas as well as ice or water hazards.
Stay informed:
Stay up-to-date on weather forecasts, and adapt your plans accordingly. It might seem obvious, but we all forget to check the road conditions when we have so many things to remember when packing up the kids for adventures, so don’t’ forget to do a quick check ahead of time.
Winter is a treasure trove of memories waiting to be made. Explore with your little ones to foster growth and development, while strengthening your family bond, with the memorable experiences winter provides. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the magic of winter.
Our Birdie sitters know how important outdoor play is for our little ones and love to stay active and keep them growing and learning. Download the Birdie Break App today to meet our amazing sitters: