Play outside, even in winter

By Judy Hilgers, RN
I was not a winter fan until I learned how to dress correctly for the weather. I can now be outside for the day, regardless of the temperature.
Here are a few tips on how to stay warm:
Don’t wear cottonAvoid wearing cotton fabrics next to your skin. Cotton retains any wetness created from sweating or the elements, making you cold very fast. Instead, wear wool socks and polyester long underwear.
Layers, layers, layersAdd an insulating layer, like a down jacket, on top of your wool or polyester. The top layer should block the wind and or water. Snow pants fit into this category.
Cover your head, hands and toesPut on a warm hat, some mittens, and boots that fit well, and you are all set.
Find fun things to doOnce you have the correct clothing on, you will be surprised how much fun it is to be outside tubing, ice skating, skiing, snow shoeing, visiting winter festivals and ice sculptor contests, just to name a few. Research fun outdoors activities in your community.
Be active togetherFind something everyone in your family would like to try, or surprise the family with a new event. Some of the best family outings include things not going quite as planned. They have become memories that continue to bring hilarity into our house.
Source: American Family Children’s Hospital, University of Wisconsin: uwhealth.org