Children and Cold Weather

As the weather in Iowa is starting to dip below the freezing mark at night and sometimes during the day, I've started the following to keep Alexa nice and warm when out and about.
1) Always have a stocking hat on!  I started having her wear hats this summer to get her used to having something on her head.  She leaves the stocking hat on until the car is warmed up and I tell her she can take it off!
2) I always check the local website for the weather before we head out (if I miss the news).  This way I know the wind chills and if she should have her fall (still wear the hat!)or winter coat on.
3) Make sure pants are pulled down when carrying your child.  I have seen many parents carrying their children into stores with cold winds blowing and they have bare skin exposed on their legs!  I always make sure I give a little tug on Alexa's pants legs after I get her out to make sure she is completely covered up.

Other tips for playing in the cold that I have learned from my sister (a nurse) and playing with her children:
1) Always have them wear proper coats, snow pants, gloves, hats, and scarves.  Even sunglasses and sunscreen on their faces if it is a sunny day as the snow reflects sun just as much as water does!
2) Watch for uncontrolled balance.  If your child is having trouble walking they may be too cold and need to come in.
3) When playing in the snow if their coats/pants become noticebly wet, have them come in for a break and if they want to go out again, either wait until those garments are dry or have them put on different ones.
4) When coming in from the cold, if your child's skin (arms,legs, tummy) is cold to the touch have them take a warm bath and then something warm to drink.
5) Play with your kids outside.  Generally if you are starting to get cold, they are too and it is time to go in.

I hope this helps some of you living in the cold weather as I am!