Winter Weather: Keep Babies And Toddlers Safe
January 18, 2022
Wondering what winter gear your baby needs?
Puffy coats or snow suits look cute but should not be worn in car seats, experts say. During an accident, this clothing is flattened by impact and may allow the car seat's straps to loosen so that your child slips out – a dangerous combination when on the road. Puffy coats are not safe in a car seat or under a seat belt for someone of any age, the American Academy of Pediatrics says.
Instead, dressing in layers can keep your child warmer and safer while in traveling in a car.
Winter Layers For Babies And Toddlers
If you're planning to travel in a vehicle, think about what you have on when you're planning baby's outfit. Generally, infants should wear one more layer than adults. If you have a hat and a coat on, your infant will probably need a hat, coat and blanket.
Start with close-fitting layers, such as a long-sleeved body suit and tights or leggings, a warmer top and pants and, finally, a thin fleece jacket. In very cold weather, long underwear is also a warm and safe layering option.
If your child likes to suck his or her thumb, choose half-gloves with open fingers, and pack an extra pair in case the first set of gloves becomes damp. Wet mittens make your child colder rather than warmer.
Staying Warm In The Car
Stay warmer by storing the carrier portion of an infant seat indoors and packing extra socks, mittens and hats.
Make sure the top layer of clothing or a blanket can be removed so the baby doesn’t get too hot after the car warms up.
Also be sure to leave baby's face uncovered to avoid trapped air.
Winter Car Seat Safety
Never use a car seat cover or other product that puts a layer under your child's body or between the child's body and the harness straps. Don't use sleeping bag inserts or stroller inserts because they haven't been crash-tested, the AAP warns.
Be sure harness straps are tight enough. A car seat harness or belt needs to fit snugly so you cannot pinch the straps. You should be able to fit a finger underneath, but you should not be able to pinch any excess. If you can pinch the straps, the car seat harness needs to be tightened to fit snugly against your child's chest.
Winter Travel With Baby
Pack a bag with extra blankets, dry clothing, hats, gloves, diapers and wipes, and non-perishable snacks in your car in case of an emergency.
Get an early start. This can help if the baby is uncooperative about being buckled in and can also give you extra time to get where you're going.
Wondering what winter gear your baby needs?
Puffy coats or snow suits look cute but should not be worn in car seats, experts say. During an accident, this clothing is flattened by impact and may allow the seat's straps to loosen so that your child slips out – a dangerous combination when on the road. Puffy coats are not safe in a car seat or under a seat belt for someone of any age, the American Academy of Pediatrics says.
Instead, dressing in layers can keep your child warmer and safer while in a car.
Winter Layers For Babies And Toddlers
Think about what you have on when you're planning baby's outfit. Generally, infants should wear one more layer than adults. If you have a hat and a coat on, your infant will probably need a hat, coat and blanket.
Start with close-fitting layers, such as a long-sleeved body suit and tights or leggings, a warmer top and pants and, finally, a thin fleece jacket. In very cold weather, long underwear is also a warm and safe layering option.
If your child likes to suck his or her thumb, choose half-gloves with open fingers, and pack an extra pair in case the first set of gloves becomes damp. Wet mittens make your child colder rather than warmer.
Also be sure to leave baby's face uncovered to avoid trapped air.
Staying Warm In The Car
Stay warmer by storing the carrier portion of an infant seat indoors and packing extra socks, mittens and hats.
Make sure the top layer of clothing or a blanket can be removed so the baby doesn’t get too hot after the car warms up.
Winter Car Seat Safety
Never use a car seat cover or other product that puts a layer under your child's body or between the child's body and the harness straps. Don't use sleeping bag inserts or stroller inserts because they haven't been crash-tested, the AAP warns.
Be sure harness straps are tight enough. A car seat harness or belt needs to fit snugly so you cannot pinch the straps. You should be able to fit a finger underneath, but you should not be able to pinch any excess. If you can pinch the straps, the car seat harness needs to be tightened to fit snugly against your child's chest.
Winter Travel With Baby
Pack a bag with extra blankets, dry clothing, hats, gloves, diapers and wipes, and non-perishable snacks in your car in case of an emergency.
Get an early start. This can help if the baby is uncooperative about being buckled in and can also give you extra time to get where you're going.
