Playing outside during the winter can be just as fun as playing outside during any other season (except in some places, it may be a lot colder with snow!). Keep children active during the winter months with these awesome safety tips from Findababysitter.org:
- Use Sunscreen – It is not just the summer months that can damage children’s skin. The reflection of the sun off of the snow can be just as damaging as being out in the sun during the brightest summer day.
- Waterproof Clothing is Key – Bundling children up to play in the snow is very important. Once the clothes are wet from the snow, it can make children cold even if they have many layers on. If their clothes are waterproof, they will not get as cold as fast and better yet, they will stay dry!
- Know the Signs of Frostbite – Pay attention for signs of Frostbite! The skin may become white, flushed, yellow or blue and appear frozen, and will be cold to the touch.
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Insist on Warm-Up Breaks –Kids may lose track of the time while they are building snowmen and rolling around making snow angels. Encourage warm-up breaks every so often, so that one can check for signs of hypothermia or frostbite.
- Keep Ice Skating Safe – Ice skating is beautiful and very fun, however it can be very dangerous! Ice skating at public rinks is safer than ice skating at the neighborhood pond. No matter what, make sure that any ice your children are going to skate on is frozen solid, and they are wearing the appropriate attire.
- Smart Sledding –Sledding can be an exhilarating experience for children. As fun as sledding can be, making sure that the places where kids are sledding, is not near a road or any types of rocks, or bumps is the safest way to sled.
- Don’t Forget About Dehydration – Plenty of fluids is not only needed during the warmer months. Children can easily get dehydrated by running around in the colder temperatures. During their warm-up breaks make sure they rehydrate!
- Scarf Safety –Opt for cowl-style scarves so that children do not get caught on branches, doors, or anything else that runs of the risk of a long scarf getting caught on.
- Double-Check Equipment – Winter only comes once a year. During that year, equipment may become damaged or broken. Before the children begin to play outside, make sure the toys or equipment they want to use is not damaged or broken. This will help prevent injuries!
Playing during the winter can be safe fun that creates fond childhood memories! What tips or rules do you have when your children play in the snow?
