Playing outside is encouraged for kids most days, but freezing temperatures and winter weather can get in the way.
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The Dayton Children’s Hospital says children are safe to spend time outside as long as the temperature is still in double digits.
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“When temperatures reach 10 degrees or below, parents should really keep their children inside,” Amy Schopperth, trauma program manager at Dayton Children’s said. “It’s rare that we say don’t go outside and play, but in these sorts of single-digit, or even negative degrees events, just a few minutes outside can put a child at risk.”
However, it is important to dress children in proper clothes to make sure they stay warm and dry.
Dayton Children’s Hospital says layering is the key to keeping warm. First, put them in a thin cotton, wool or synthetic fabric to trap heat. Then, a sweater or sweatshirt that isn’t too bulky to wear under a coat. Then add a jacket and waterproof pants or a snow suit. Double up on socks and wear waterproof boots. Of course, a hat, scarf and gloves or mittens are a great addition.
It is also important to make sure they stay dry, the children’s hospital says. Wet and cold clothing puts people at risk for hypothermia, so make sure to change out of any wet clothes.
The children’s hospital says to look out specifically for your child’s “cold zones,” which are the parts of the body most commonly affected by frostbite. These “cold zones” are ears, cheeks, fingers and toes, the hospital says.
They also recommend starting with a snack to increase energy and heat production.
Check on your child every 15-20 minutes, Dayton Children’s Hospital says, to make sure they aren’t too wet or cold. Make sure to bring them inside periodically to warm up and change into dry clothes.
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