There might still be six more weeks of this brisk winter weather, but you still know the benefits of fresh air. With snow on the ground, a chill in the air, and a fervor for the great outdoors, a wintry walk is in your future. We’re not advocating for a stroll around the neighborhood during a blizzard, but you don’t have to channel your inner grizzly bear and hibernate indoors until temperatures rise again. We’ve got your back for your next winter excursion. Here are some tips to help you prepare for a winter walk with your baby.
Layer Up
Layers are your best friends when getting your littles ready to face the frost. As a general rule, your tots need one more layer than you do. If you’re comfortable outside with two layers on, give your baby a third. And don’t forget hats, scarves, and mittens! Nobody wants a cold noggin or frozen piggies.
Watch the Forecast
Walking through the park on shoveled pathways is one thing, but braving the cold when snow is falling is another excursion altogether. Keep an eye on the weather, and if there’s a chance of snow (or sleet or hail) pivot your afternoon plans – stay inside and put on a movie, or have a coloring party.
Bring the Right Accessories
Your gear is what can make or break a journey out of the house during the winter. Set yourself up for success with the coziest accessories to keep you and baby warm. Warm your hands while pushing baby with fuzzy stroller gloves, and give baby an extra cozy layer with a footmuff.
Plan Your Route
In the summer, it might be fun to see where your wanderings take you or let your toddler choose which turns to take, but maybe not in the cold. Plan your winter walk’s route so you know what to expect. The elements can be unforgiving in the winter, with snow drifts, icy patches, and muddy paths. Stick to plowed streets and sidewalks to avoid wet feet and a grumpy little one.
Keep an Eye on the Time
Another drawback to winter, besides the freezing temperatures and unpredictable weather, is the loss of daylight. Start your walk early so you have the most hours of daylight ahead of you. In many parts of the country that have four seasons, the sun starts to set around 4:00 p.m. during winter, and it gets progressively darker and gloomier throughout the afternoon leading up to sunset. Get your littles back home and cozy before it’s pitch black outside, the perfect movie night conditions.
