Did you know that when heading out with your little one he should be wearing the equivalent to what you’re wearing PLUS one? And the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) cautions parents not to over do it: once you get indoors — or even into your warm car — take a layer off of Baby just like you do yourself.
You may be tempted to not disturb your child if he’s sleeping in his car seat, but you don’t want him to get over-heated. “Babies dressed in too many layers (of blankets or clothing) are at greater risk for overheating and for SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome),” reports the AAP, so remember to monitor Baby’s comfort level at all times. The AAP offers these tips on keeping babies warm outdoors in snowy conditions:
- Use several thin layers to keep babies and children dry and warm.
- Dress older babies and young children in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions.
- Don’t forget warm boots, gloves or mittens, and a hat (even if a jacket has a hood).
Also, remember that blankets, pillows, bumpers and other loose bedding should be kept out of your infant’s sleeping environment for the optimum sleeping environment — stick to sleepers or wearable blankets. If a blanket is a must, it should be thin and tucked under the crib mattress, reaching only as far as Baby’s chest.
