Each month, this series will provide important facts and tips surrounding child safety in an effort to support parents and caregivers as they navigate reducing risks and creating the safest environment possible for the children in their lives. 

Brrr! As our families enter the coldest part of the year, we want to make sure our kids are kept warm and safe with freezing temperatures to come! 

This month, we’ve rounded up a winter clothing guide to help you choose essential items to complete your kid’s winter wardrobe while ensuring you feel confident shopping for the right materials, fit and features! 

Coats & Jackets

As you can imagine, a comfortable, warm winter coat is essential for keeping kids and teens safe in the cold weather. As temperatures drop and wind increases, insulated coats are going to offer the best protection. Try to aim for down or synthetic insulation and waterproof coats so it stays warm and dry. Always have your child try on coats and jackets with additional layers on to make sure it doesn’t fit too tight. Depending on the age of your kids, look out for safety hazards like long strings and toggles with big ties. Brightly colored coats are going to help ensure high visibility outside, so you can keep an eye on your kids and others can see them.  

Hats & Beanies

Did you know that we lose the most body heat from our heads? If you have little ones who will agree to keeping their hat on this winter, get them a snug fitting one that covers their ears and forehead. Make sure it’s not too tight to avoid headaches or meltdowns! Water resistant fabrics are best if you want them warm in the snow or rain when playing or heading into school. Chin straps and ties are amazingly convenient for younger children, so they don’t constantly lose their hats when playing.

Gloves & Mittens

Tiny fingers need the most warmth in the cold weather! Younger kids may do better with mittens than gloves, not only due to the fit being easier to put on, but also the shared warmth from fingers inside. When you’re choosing a size for gloves and mittens, make sure they fit snug at the wrist so snow can’t get inside. Look for waterproof, insulated materials as well as fleece lined so they stay dry during play. Almost every parent knows the headache of losing gloves, so aim to find the ones that include velcro or snaps to keep them together when not being worn. 

Scarves

Make sure your child’s scarf is long enough to cover his or her neck for warmth but not so long that it can be a strangulation risk. When it comes to your smallest kids, you’ll want to trade scarves for neck gaiters to avoid this risk completely as even short scarves can pose a huge threat. Opt for breathable fabrics that are nice and soft. Pay close attention to your child’s skin as some children have reactions to specific animal fibers like wool. Consider removing scarves before rough play or heading to the playground in case it gets caught on equipment. 

Socks & Shoes

Avoiding winter sickness? Start at the bottom! Leave cotton socks for spring and summer as these retain moisture. Instead shop for wool-blend socks that create insulation and help your child stay warm and dry. Choose high top sneakers and boots that are waterproof or at least water-resistant with non-slip soles for wet and snowy days. If you’re trying winter shoes on, make sure your kids wear their thick winter socks to make sure they can still wiggle their toes!

Smart Shopping This Winter

Don’t forget that with winter clothing prices and the rate your children are growing, second hand options are wonderful choices. Consider creating a winter clothing swap with other parents in your immediate circle or community to have varying sizes to choose from. You can also check Facebook Marketplace or local consignment and thrift shops for great options on a budget.

Helpful Resources

• The American Academy of Pediatrics {Online edition link: aap.org/en/community} 

HealthyChildren.org {Online edition link: healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx}