As the daylight hours shrink and frigid temperatures set in, parents face the additional challenge of finding engaging winter activities for their children—and themselves—during these long, dark months.
Venturing outdoors is a fantastic experience for everyone from infants to adults, but what happens when the temperatures plummet? How cold is excessive for a baby to be outside? What are the recommended winter temperatures for infants? How should a baby be dressed for winter? And is it safe to take your precious little one outdoors?
Infants are particularly sensitive to fluctuations in temperature compared to adults. “Because they are less capable of regulating their body temperature than adults, children can swiftly develop dangerously low body temperatures [i.e., become hypothermic]. Newborns are especially susceptible to hypothermia [defined as a body temperature below 95º F] due to their larger body surface area, limited subcutaneous fat, and diminished ability to shiver,” states The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Your concerns about taking your baby outside in icy conditions are completely valid. Fortunately, there are safe practices to follow.
Dressing an Infant for Cold Weather: Winter Safety Guidelines
Layering is essential for staying warm in winter, applicable for both babies and adults. However, it’s crucial not to overbundle your baby, as overheating can also pose risks.
A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one more layer than you feel comfortable wearing. If you are comfortable in a long-sleeve shirt, your baby should likely have a long-sleeve onesie and an additional shirt or light jacket layered on top.
For stroller outings, ensure your baby is dressed warmly, then add a blanket or stroller cozy for extra warmth.
While playing outside, remember to add a winter coat, warm pants or snow pants, as well as a hat and mittens. The most exposed areas of a child’s body—like the chin, nose, ears, fingers, and toes—are the most susceptible to cold.
Don’t forget about car seat safety while keeping your baby warm. It’s important that infants do not wear bulky winter coats, thick clothing, or blankets under the straps of their car seats, as this can prevent the straps from securing tightly, creating a safety hazard during a crash.
Is 30 Degrees Too Cold for a Baby? Safe Outdoor Temperatures for Infants
Above Freezing: Extreme cold can pose risks for babies when temperatures drop below freezing (32º F). Many parents often ask, “How cold is too cold for a baby?” The American Academy of Pediatrics cautions that newborns and infants are particularly sensitive to cold and may not handle extreme temperatures well. Short excursions outdoors are acceptable, but lengthy outings should be avoided.
Well Below Freezing: As temperatures descend below 20º F, it is advisable to remain indoors whenever possible. Remember to take wind chill into account, as it can make the temperature feel significantly colder, especially on delicate baby skin.
Indoors: The ideal indoor temperature should be maintained between 68º and 72º. While baby blankets may be adorable for cuddling, they are not safe for cribs due to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). If you’re worried about your baby getting cold at night, consider using sleep sacks.
Signs Your Newborn is Cold
Mayo Clinic, if you observe any of these signs, contact your pediatrician immediately (or call 911):
Symptoms of Hypothermia in Infants and Children
- Shivering (note that very young infants typically do not shiver!)
- Slurred speech
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Weak pulse
- Uncoordination
- Lethargy or very low energy
- Confusion or forgetfulness
- Loss of consciousness
- Bright red, cold skin (in babies)
Indicators of Frostbite in Infants and Children
- Cold skin
- Prickly, pins-and-needle sensations
- Numbness
- Skin appearing red, white, bluish-white, or grayish-yellow
- Skin that feels hard or waxy
- Uncoordination and stiffness
- Blistering
Additional Winter Safety Tips for Babies
- Prepare an emergency kit in your vehicle in case of a breakdown. Edmunds offers a comprehensive emergency kit checklist that includes items like blankets, flashlights, granola bars, and bottled water. Ensure your gas tank is nearly full and that your vehicle is well-maintained.
- Think about pre-warming your vehicle, but NEVER do this inside a garage, even if the doors are open.
- Protect everyone’s skin using baby-safe lotions or balms.
- Consider utilizing a cool-mist humidifier to maintain moisture in the air for your baby at night.
A Note from Motherly
It is indeed possible to take your baby outdoors; just be mindful of the temperature. Layer your baby’s clothing, adhere to safe car seat practices, and stay vigilant for signs of discomfort from the cold. Limit outdoor time, and if the temperature drops below 20º F, consider staying indoors unless it’s a quick trip to a preheated car.
Stay steady, mom. You’re navigating this winter season just fine—it’s notoriously challenging. Embrace a hibernation mindset, prioritize self-care and bonding time, and before long, the blooms will return and you’ll be spending every moment outside.
it easy for your little one to wiggle around. Additionally, the high-quality materials ensure water resistance, making it perfect for snowy adventures. Plus, their durability means this investment can be passed down through siblings or resold, adding further value.
Image Source: Yaoinlove / Shutterstock
