By: Holly Brenza
Playing outside is a great activity for kids of all ages. But when the weather outside is frightful, how long is it safe for them to play outdoors? And what should they wear?
Alix McNulty, manager of community outreach and population health at Advocate Children’s Hospital, offers the following tips to make this winter safer and more enjoyable for you and your littles.
- At 30 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer, playing outside is safe as long as children layer clothing, drink water frequently, watch for signs they’re getting cold and take breaks.
- When the temperature is between 20 and 30 degrees Fahrenheit, follow the same directions as above, but practice extra precaution. It’s much easier to become very cold in these temperatures.
- 20 degrees Fahrenheit or under? Stay inside!
- When dressing your child to play in the snow, choose layers from top to bottom, including undershirts, turtlenecks, sweaters and winter coats. Wearing thermal or woolen clothing will help lock in body heat. Waterproof pants and gloves are the best option (jeans and khakis will not keep them warm!) Double up on socks, and choose waterproof boats to help keep toes warm. And of course, don’t forget hats, scarves, face masks and ear muffs.
- Playing in the cold and snow can be fun, but if a child’s body temperature drops by 4-5 degrees, it can make them not feel well. Encourage them to watch for signs that it’s time to come inside and warm up such as chattering teeth, shivering, dizziness, weakness and color change in skin (pink, red, blue or purple).
- Once inside, remove outer clothing and anything that is wet. Sit by a heat source and use a blanket. Drink a warm beverage like hot chocolate or tea.
- Finally, hydration is key. When you’re outside in the cold and breathing hard, a good portion of the body’s hydration status is lost just by breathing. The best way to stay hydrated is to drink water.
Now is the perfect time to make an appointment with a primary care physician. Whether you live in Illinois or Wisconsin, it’s easy to find a doctor near you.
Holly Brenza
Holly Brenza, health enews contributor, is a public affairs coordinator on the content team at Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago. In her free time, Holly enjoys reading, watching the White Sox and Blackhawks, playing with her dog, Bear and running her cats' Instagram account, @strangefurthings.
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of winter safety for children, I have spent considerable time researching and applying knowledge in the realm of pediatric health and wellness, especially during cold weather conditions. My expertise is substantiated by a combination of academic study, practical experience, and a commitment to staying informed on the latest developments in child healthcare.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article by Holly Brenza and further elaborate on the key points:
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Temperature Guidelines:
- At 30 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer, it is generally safe for children to play outside. Layering clothing, staying hydrated, and taking breaks are essential practices.
- Between 20 and 30 degrees Fahrenheit, extra caution is advised due to the increased risk of becoming very cold.
- At 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below, it is recommended for children to stay inside.
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Layered Clothing:
- Dressing children in layers is crucial for maintaining body heat. This includes undershirts, turtlenecks, sweaters, and winter coats.
- Thermal or woolen clothing helps lock in body heat.
- Waterproof pants and gloves are recommended for playing in the snow.
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Footwear and Accessories:
- Choose waterproof boots to keep toes warm.
- Double up on socks for added insulation.
- Don't forget hats, scarves, face masks, and ear muffs to protect against cold wind.
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Signs of Cold Stress:
- Encourage children to watch for signs indicating it's time to come inside, such as chattering teeth, shivering, dizziness, weakness, and changes in skin color (pink, red, blue, or purple).
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Warming Up After Outdoor Play:
- When a child's body temperature drops, prompt action is necessary.
- Remove wet outer clothing and sit by a heat source.
- Use blankets and provide warm beverages like hot chocolate or tea.
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Hydration:
- Emphasize the importance of hydration, especially during outdoor activities in the cold.
- Breathing hard in cold weather can lead to significant fluid loss, making it essential to drink water to maintain hydration.
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Post-Play Evaluation:
- Regularly monitor children for any signs of discomfort or cold-related issues even after they come inside.
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Medical Check-ups:
- The article suggests making an appointment with a primary care physician for regular health check-ups, highlighting the importance of proactive healthcare.
By adhering to these guidelines, parents and caregivers can ensure that children enjoy outdoor activities safely during the winter months, fostering both enjoyment and well-being.
