Cold Weather Safety for Children
Tips for children in the winter months
The cold months can feel like a winter wonderland for your children. Most enjoy drinking hot cocoa by the fire, seeing Santa Claus, playing outside in the snow, and celebrating holiday traditions with family and friends. It can be such a fun time for children. It can also be dangerous as it gets colder. During the winter, there are several illnesses and outside activities that can lead to making your child sick. To fully enjoy the holidays, a few extra steps can be taken to ensure your children stay safe and healthy during the holiday season.
1. Flu Vaccines
Yearly, it is advisable for most people to get a flu shot. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a seasonal flu vaccine each year. The flu is more dangerous than the common cold for children. Did you know that children
are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications than adults? A
child's immune system grows stronger daily in the first five years of their life.
Most kids will recover quickly but can spread illnesses faster compared to adults.
Keeping up-to-date with annual check ups and vaccinations will make your little one
grow stronger as an adult.
It is important to wash your child's hands frequently, especially when they have the sniffles or a cough. If your child is feverish or has developed respiratory symptoms, it is a good idea to keep them away from others in order to prevent spread of the illness.
Dr. Sarah Tolliver
ETSU Health Pediatrician
2. Practice Good Hygiene
Washing hands should come naturally, especially if your children learn to wash their
hands after going to the bathroom. Wash your children's hands more frequently, especially
when sniffles or a cough is present. Teach them a song or easy game to encourage them
to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds. Singing the ABCs is a popular way for
children to ensure enough time has passed while cleaning their hands.
Washing your hands is not the only habit that teaches children good hygiene. Teach your kids from a young age what it means to have good cleaning habits that will last throughout their lives. Introducing good oral care is another high benefit on your child's immune system. Teach them how to wash their hair, body and nails as well as good skincare, to name a few. All will benefit from good hygiene for a healthy and safe life.
3. Winter Accessories
Gloves, socks, hats, scarves and warm shoes are essential for playing outside in the snow. Children can quickly grow out of clothes and accessories. You can visit second-hand stores to shop for these items. These accessories keep fingers and toes from getting frostbitten, especially when playing in wet snow.
The CDC recommends not to let your children play outside in temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. When letting children play outside in the snow, it is crucial for them to take breaks and go inside to warm up. When your child wants their hands to be warm after playing outside – remember to use lukewarm and not hot water over their hands to avoid potential injury.
Even in the cold months, it is important to put sunscreen on your children. Sunburns
can still happen on cloudy or cool days, especially if sunlight is reflecting off
snow that is on the ground.
"When wearing a winter coat, it is important for children and babies to take their coats off when getting into a car seat. Heavy coats and additional layers can cause a car seat to not be as effective in keeping your child safe."
Despite the cold weather and snow, many children will be excited to play outside, and they must be prepared to ensure their safety. If you have questions about other ways to keep your child healthy and safe this winter season, contact ETSU Health Pediatrics.