Baby, it's cold outside

Snow, especially in December, makes for a festive holiday atmosphere, but it also signals an important fact.

It’s cold outside.

That means you need to dress your children warmly, whether you’re traveling to day care or Market 32, or heading to some sledding at Maple Ski Ridge near Schenectady or Frear Park in Troy.

But just what does dressing warmly entail? The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these valuable tips on how to keep your kids warm during the winter:

• Dress them in several thin layers of clothing. Layering allows kids to take off a jacket or sweatshirt rather than choosing between being overly warm or cold. For toddlers and young children, use one more layer than an adult would wear in the same conditions.
• Don't forget warm boots, gloves or mittens, and a hat. Choose boots that are large enough to comfortably accommodate two pairs of socks.

• Remove drawstrings from clothing, as they could get caught on tree branches or play equipment. Replace with velcro.

• When riding in the car, babies and children should wear thin, snug layers rather than thick, bulky coats or snowsuits.
• Preparing the kids for winter doesn’t just involve proper clothing. The sun's rays can cause sunburn in any season, especially when they reflect off snow. Make sure to cover exposed skin with sunscreen.

Frostbite is a hazard of wearing improper clothing in cold weather. The condition tends to happen most often on fingers, toes, ears and the nose. You can prevent frostbite by dressing your child in layers and covering all body parts when the kids are outside.
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A healthy child means happy kids ― and parents.