Winter Safety Tips for Kids: Staying Safe While Enjoying the Season

Winter Safety Tips for Kids: Staying Safe While Enjoying the Season

Winter brings snow, ice, and endless opportunities for family fun, from skiing and skating to sledding and snowball fights. As a holistic pediatrician, I’m here to share essential safety tips to keep your children safe and healthy during winter adventures. With a little preparation, we can ensure that the season is filled with joyful memories instead of avoidable accidents.

Bundle Up, But Safely

Dressing warmly is key to avoiding cold-related illnesses like frostbite and hypothermia, especially when kids are waiting for the school bus, walking to school, or playing outside. Layering is your best friend:

• Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off the skin.

• Add insulating layers, like fleece or wool, to retain warmth.

• Finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to shield against the elements.

Car Seat Tip: Avoid bulky coats or snowsuits under car seat straps. These can compress during a crash, making the straps too loose to protect your child. Instead, buckle them in snugly and place a warm blanket or their coat (unzipped) over the straps. Learn more from The Car Seat Lady.

Snow Sports: Gear Up for Safety

Winter sports are thrilling, but they come with risks. Proper preparation and equipment can make all the difference:

• Helmets Are Non-Negotiable: Whether skiing, snowboarding, skating, or even sledding, a helmet designed for snow sports is essential. Make sure it fits snugly and meets safety standards. Never use a damaged helmet.  If your little one has taken a hard fall, replace the helmet.  Remember - helmets expire - so always check the date.  

• Size It Right: Ill-fitting equipment, like skis, snowboards, or skates, can increase the risk of injury. Take the time to have equipment properly sized by a professional.

• Check the Ski Bar: Always lower the safety bar on ski lifts to prevent falls. Teach kids to stay seated and still while riding the lift.

• Sunscreen Is Year-Round: Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, intensifying sun exposure. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to all exposed skin, and don’t forget lip balm with SPF.

Sledding: More Than Just Fun

Sledding may seem harmless, but it can lead to serious injuries without precautions:

• Choose a safe hill away from roads, trees, and obstacles.

• Always supervise children and ensure they sled feet-first to avoid head injuries.

• Helmets should be worn—yes, even for sledding! Even for adults!

Skiing & Snowboarding: Stay Safe on the Slopes

Skiing and Snowboarding are exciting ways to enjoy winter, but it’s important to follow some key safety tips:

• Stay with a Buddy: Always have a partner when snowboarding or skiing, especially on less-traveled trails. If an accident happens, having someone nearby can be lifesaving.

• Be Aware of Trees: Teach kids to stay in control and avoid riding too close to trees or areas with dense foliage. Tree wells (the areas of loose snow around tree bases) can be dangerous.

• Stay in Control: Speeding down the slope can be thrilling, but staying in control is important for everyone's safety.  Serious injuries and death can result from speeding while skiing or snowboarding.

• Know Your Limits: Encourage children to stick to slopes that match their skill level. Overconfidence can lead to injuries.

4. Cold Exposure: Know the Limits

Prolonged exposure to cold weather can lead to frostbite or hypothermia. Keep these tips in mind:

• Limit outdoor play during extreme cold and wind chills.

• Watch for early signs of frostbite, such as pale or numb skin, especially on fingers, toes, and ears.

• Teach kids to come inside regularly to warm up, change out of wet clothes, and hydrate.

• Remember, littles riding in sleds or backpacks with parents who are hiking or cross country skiing will get much colder as they aren't moving. They'll need more layers and shorter outings than you can do alone. 

5. Ice Skating: Glide Safely

• Skate only in designated areas to avoid thin ice.

• Ensure skates fit properly and are securely fastened.

• Helmets are just as important here as they are for other snow sports.

6. Keep Learning

For more tips and evidence-based guidance on winter safety, check out these trusted resources:

• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

• The Car Seat Lady

• National Ski Areas Association

Winter is a magical time, and with a little preparation, we can ensure that our children’s adventures are as safe as they are exciting. Let’s embrace the season together and make it one to remember—for all the right reasons!

Stay safe and enjoy the snow!