The temperatures have dropped in Iowa. But the kids still need fresh air. Really, I do too! My family enjoys all kinds of winter play and activities. We like getting out in the snow —however, nothing can ruin a fun day in the snow faster than getting wet and cold. These tips will help your family enjoy winter weather play as a family!
5 Tips for Winter Weather Play
Layers
Dress in many layers, with the bottom most layer being one that can wick moisture away from your skin. Synthetic fabrics, some wool types, and silk are some of the best choices. Cotton isn’t the best choice as it tends to get wet and hold moisture near your body, which will pull heat away leave you feeling cold and miserable.
Boots
Cold feet quickly leads to a cold body. Snow boots keep your feet warm by keeping them dry, but also by trapping heat from your body to warm the air inside the boot and around your feet. For this reason, boots that are even a little tight can cause cold feet quickly. If your kiddo is complaining of cold feet when playing in the snow, check their boot size. It might be time to size up.
Hot Hands/Feet
I discovered this product (found on Amazon) a few years ago. You open the package, shake it, and by some chemical magic it becomes warm and stays that way for a few hours. Stick them in your gloves and your boots for toasty warmth. For some reason, I find that if my hands and feet are warm, the rest of me is more likely to be warm. Do be careful if your skin is very sensitive to temperature, and monitor skin to be sure nothing is burning or becoming too warm. Always supervise children when using this or any chemical product.
Move!
When you move around, your body produces its own heat, which is then trapped by your coat and continues to warm your core. So, follow your kids’ lead and run around!
Warm Drinks
My kids always know that when we’ve been outside in the cold, they will get a hot drink when we come back inside. That promise of hot chocolate, Tang, or tea warming their insides helps them push through the cold.
Winter in Iowa can be long, but it might as well be fun! If you’re headed out to enjoy what winter can bring, check out these lists of great sledding hills and hidden Iowa City winter gems. Enjoy the snow everyone, spring will be here soon!
What are your best winter weather play tips?
