Just a reminder for all of the families out there with young children.  You probably already know this information, but I always like reminders.

*Remember that small, young children warm up quickly indoors and cool off even quicker outdoors.  Keep your child bundled from head to toe literally.  

• Have your young child wear a warm hat to prevent heat loss from the top of their heads
• ear muffs to protect their little ears from the cold
• mittens to keep their tiny hands and fingers warm
• a child size scarf around their necks to prevent the cool air from getting inside their shirts
• a warm coat to keep their body heat in
• and thick warm socks for their feet.
• rain-boots or other boots that are well insulated and have good traction will also prevent heat loss from their feet.
•  Also make sure their shirts and pants are thicker for these colder months.  The outerwear is great, but regular clothes should not be the same as what they wear during the summer months.
• When your young child comes back indoors make sure all of the outdoor warm clothes come off so the indoor heat can reach their bodies and they can acclimate to the warmer indoor environment.  

*Also make sure to hydrate your young child.  We often forget to drink as much water as we do in the warmer months.  Children need to keep hydrated year round, so make sure you encourage them to drink water, juice, milk and yes, hot cocoa! 🙂

Heidi Scott, BA & MIT  The Marigold School of Early Learning