Yes, the weather is very cold in Wisconsin, so not many kids will be heading outside, but when the weather warms up a few degrees, here are a few tips to staying warm and dry.
• Protect your face: Make sure all skin is covered to prevent frost bite. Scarves and face masks are great for this. For extra protection, wear goggles to protect your eyes.
• Protect your legs: Wear snow pants or other protective covering for your legs. Even a pair of water resistant running pants worn over your regular clothes can work.
• Protect your body: Wear a warm winter parka made of quilted fabric or down. Lands End makes good affordable coats.
• Protect your hands: Cold hands are the worst, so invest in a good pair of mittens for the kids and for yourself. If you are especially sensitive to cold, purchase some hand warmers. Hot hands is a brand that I’m familiar with.
• Protect your feet: You will want a good pair of waterproof boots and wool socks to stay warm and dry. Sorel makes a good boot, but there are plenty of brands that will work. Smartwool is a trusted brand for socks.
• Stay out of the wind: The wind is what makes cold weather especially dangerous, so if you are heading out on a windy day, be sure to protect yourself by wearing the proper clothing and staying shielded from the wind.
• Keep moving: It’s possible to sweat even in very cold weather so keep it moving by having a task when you are outside. Here are a few activities you can try: walk briskly, sled, snowshoe, cross country ski, build a snow fort, shovel the walkway and have a snowball fight. I’m sure you’ll think of other activities too.
• Have fun: When you come in from the cold, enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and some hot soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. Your kids will remember the memories for a lifetime.
Write in the comments some of your favorite winter activities and how you keep warm.
Thanks and Happy Winter!
