Play safe this winter

A cold, snowy day may seem like a child’s paradise, but it has its perils. Here’s how to keep kids warm, dry and safe—whether they’re tumbling in backyard snowbanks or gliding around a skating rink.

When the kids are itching for playtime, it’s unlikely that winter weather will hold them back. Fortunately, outdoor winter play is great for them in so many ways (and they won’t even know it!) In addition to keeping them off the couch, it helps combat the winter blues, and connects your children with nature—setting the stage for a new generation of outdoor-loving, earth-friendly citizens. Still, winter weather means taking a few extra precautions before they head outside for a tumble in the snow. The following tips for stress-free winter play will ensure that both you and your children enjoy a safe and healthy winter—full of fun, and free of frostbite. 

First things first

Before you set out, check the temperature—including the wind chill factor. Extreme cold warnings (chillier than -25ºC) or adverse conditions such as snowstorms mean it’s best to stay indoors. Also remember that cold air increases the risk of exercise-induced asthma. And don’t forget to remind your kids that lips and tongues can easily freeze to metal—that’s not just from the movies.  

The Canadian Paediatric Society also recommends that children never play outside alone. A buddy system will help kids watch out for one another. Parents should also check on children frequently—and consider enticing younger children inside for a break with some hot chocolate (with marshmallows!). 

Clothing control

Protecting the feet, hands, and head should be your number one priority when preparing the kids for an afternoon outside. A hat that completely covers the ears is your best bet, since it will prevent frostbite (to which little ears are oh-so prone). But it’s their toes that can be the first to freeze, so boots should be warm and waterproof, with enough extra room for a second pair of socks. Choose mittens instead of gloves so that little fingers can be bunched together for warmth. Cover as much of the face as possible. You should also use a neckwarmer rather than a traditional scarf, to avoid anything getting caught on equipment. In fact, avoid all drawstrings or loose ends. 

As for body protection, layering is the way to go for ultimate warmth. An undershirt, a turtleneck and a sweater on top, combined with a pair of long thermal underwear beneath pants and snowpants, will keep any kid toasty. Above all, use waterproof outerwear. When clothing becomes wet, it no longer acts as an insulator. 

Finish the outfit off with a bit of sunscreen on those exposed noses and cheeks—even if it’s a cloudy day—and the kids will be ready to frolic in any winter wonderland. 

Watch out for Jack Frost

Your children might get so wrapped up in playing they won't notice the frost nipping at their nose. Schedule a return home every half hour, to warm them up and check for frostbite. Watch for the following signs: very red skin with small white patches on the extremities, and skin that feels prickly or itchy. This can be treated at home, by soaking the affected area in lukewarm water until the skin turns pink. Do not use hot water, which can damage the skin. If any patches of skin become white, blue and hard, seek medical attention immediately.

Tobogganing techniques 

Health Canada and the Canadian Paediatric Society make the following recommendations for staying safe while sledding: 

• Always wear a ski or hockey helmet—not a bicycle helmet. Bicycle helmets are only tested to -10ºC; they also need to be replaced after one crash. 

• Always sit up or kneel on a sled. Lying down can increase the risk of injury to the head, spine and stomach. 

• Teach your children to slide down the middle of the hill, move out of the way as soon as they get to the bottom; climb up the side. 

• Children under 5 should never sled down the hill alone.

• Sled during the day. If you sled at night, make sure the hill is well-lit.

• Choose a hill that is away from roads and parking lots. There should be no rocks, trees, fences or other dangers in the path. 

Smarter skating 

Both Health Canada and the National Safety Council offer these tips for safe skating: 

• Always wear a CSA-certified helmet while skating or playing hockey. 

• Use skates that fit comfortably and provide enough ankle support to keep children on their feet. 

• Have the blades professionally sharpened at the beginning of each season. 

• Skate only on specially prepared skating areas where you are sure the ice is strong enough to withstand your weight. If you skate on lakes, make sure the ice is smooth and at least 10 centimetres thick. Check with local weather authorities for information about ice thickness.

• Never skate near open water. Ice formed on moving water, such as rivers and creeks, may not be thick enough to be safe. 

• Learn basic skating skills, such as how to stop and fall safely. Children should be reminded to skate in the same direction and at the same speed as the crowd. 

By following these simple precautions, you can ensure a fun-filled, active winter for your children. And who knows, they may even grow up a little wiser—and a little greener for it. 

With research from Shelagh McNally