Keeping children warm in the winter is so important. Kids have smaller bodies which means they can lose heat much quicker than adults. Children are also less likely to realised when they are getting cold. That is why it is important to learn how to keep your child warm in the cold weather.

We want to help you make sure they’re not too hot, not too cold, but just right. Whether you’re going for a walk through the park or making a trip to the shops.

Wet Wednesdays firmly believe rain (or snow) should not stop play and that’s why it’s important to make sure your children are dressed appropriately for the colder months so they can still get outside and enjoy the outdoors! They do this by making sustainable outdoor clothing that protects them in all weathers and is kind to our planet

Here are 4 tips to keeping your children warm when its cold outside:

1. Appropriate Clothing to Stay Warm in the Winter.

Ensuring you have the right clothing for your child will keep them warm in the winter. Many parents do not realise that too many layers can make children colder. This is because excess layers can cause your child to sweat, which makes their clothes wet, allowing the cold and wind to bring their temperature down.

Layering can be simple, so let’s break it down for you. There are three basic layers, and there are materials that are great for different layers.

  • First is the Base Layers. This is the layer right next to your child’s skin.

The base layer needs to wick moisture so look out for snug fitting base layers. Wool and merino wool is a great material to look for or alternatively synthetic fabrics can wick moisture away from the skin and make your little ones feel comfortable and snuggly.

  • Secondly is the Middle Layers. This goes over the base layer.

We want this layer to insulate, so it needs to fit close to the body without restraining movement. We would recommend looking for materials such as wool, down or fleece to help keep the warmth in.

  • Lastly is the Outer Layer.

This layer needs to protect your children from the elements of the outdoors. The rain, snow and wind. It is important to look for a waterproof jacket, and you could pair this with waterproof dungarees or trousers.

Alternatively you could go for a waterproof all in one suit for full body protection in one. Make sure that the outer layer still allows for easy movement and has room for their layers.

2. Fingers, Toes, and Faces.

Keeping your child’s head, face, ears, hands, and feet warm in the winter is so important, as they are  most prone to cold exposure and frostbite. Frostbite is like the winter version of getting burned: It damages the skin and usually causes numbness.

Children have sensitive skin the cold, so we recommend these cold weather clothing accessories:

  • Heavy, non-cotton socks
  • A scarf or neck warmer

Heat can escape from the head, hands, wrists and feet. So, keeping these points warm, dry and cosy will help prevent frostbite and any heat escaping.

3. Always Pack Spares.

We are sure you already know how important it is to pack spares with children. But it is especially important in the winter. All it takes is a lost mitten, or accidentally spilling drink down themselves. If clothes get wet, it can cause all heat to be lost. So packing spares will prevent this.

An emergency cold weather clothing kit could include extra gloves, socks, trousers and tops. It may also be worth packing a flask of warm hot chocolate to have on your adventures, keeping the little ones warm inside and happy.

4. Know When to Head Inside

We always encourage little ones to get outdoors, but we know that you can’t stay outside forever. It is important to look out for frostbite on cold days. It starts out as just a little frost nip, red and tingly skin which often starts out on the cheeks and nose and fingers.

If you notice any signs of frostbite, then it’s time to head somewhere warmer. This could be a break indoors to warm up with some hot food and drinks.

Remember If you get up to any adventures, remember to tag us @WetWednesdays.co.uk or use the hashtag #WetWednesdaysFamily.