The time has come, the autumn wind is blowing around our ears and winter is already in the starting blocks. A cold snap can be expected any day now and we want you and your little one to be well prepared. With this article we would like to prepare you for the winter and give you valuable tips on what you should definitely pay attention to in the cold season, so that you can carry your baby through the wintry world even in the cold. After all, no season is better for snuggling up close and enjoying each other's body heat than winter.
No matter what the weather...carrying time is cuddling time
Anyone who has ever tried to push a stroller through thick snow, through rough terrain, or through sand or mud knows that carrying can be much, much easier, more comfortable and less strenuous. And what could be nicer? You know your child is protected and safe on your body, is warmed by your body heat and you are mobile and can react immediately to your needs and those of your child.
In addition, your newborn is not yet able to regulate its body heat independently. That is, it loses body heat as the ambient temperature drops and takes on the temperature of its surroundings. Only with increasing metabolic activity and increasing age is the infant able to keep its body temperature stable. Body temperature regulation in the baby carrier or sling works best when close to mum and dad - especially in winter and when temperatures are cold. Being so close to your baby also makes it much easier for you to regularly check whether it is nice and warm.
Accordingly, it can be worn at almost all temperatures (except for extreme ones) - even more: it is even recommended!
What you should consider when wearing in cold temperatures
1. Check body temperature regularly!
Watch your baby and keep a close eye on it. The best way to check your little one's body temperature is by touching your neck or between your shoulder blades. Remember that both hypothermia and overheating should be avoided.
The skin color of your little baby also gives you information about its condition. The skin color is usually rosy. If the baby is too cold, the skin is rather pale or bluish. If it's too warm, your baby's face will be red.
Rule: if you shiver, you have to go in!
2. Choosing the right clothes
Dress yourself and your child according to the outside temperature. The layering principle has proven itself here: different layers of clothing that you can take off and put on again depending on the temperature. The baby carrier replaces at least one layer of clothing. Depending on the thickness of the babywearing jacket or cover and the outside temperature, fleece or boiled wool overalls can also be used.
3. Carry the baby on your body
It is important that you carry your baby on your body in cold temperatures. That doesn't mean over the jacket, but snuggled under your jacket or sweater. Your body heat is the best protection! From the running age it is also possible over the jacket, but only for very short periods of time in between.
4. Protects everything that sticks out
The head/ears are particularly in focus here. A lot of heat is lost on the head, so make sure you have the right hat. Also don't forget to protect your neck. A triangular scarf or a scarf cap will help here. Your hands shouldn't get too cold either. In cold temperatures, gloves are a must, or you can turn down the cuffs of your overalls. The feet should also be protected and warmed by thick woolen socks and fur boots.
5. Observe free breathing
Always make sure that your child's face is clearly visible, that it can breathe well and that its back is well supported. Your baby carrier should be sufficiently tightened or the sling should be tied tightly. So that your child can breathe well, it is better to avoid thick scarves yourself, which could affect the child. Alternatively, smooth, warm underwear that also warms your décolleté is suitable.
6. Creams for cold temperatures
Protect your child's sensitive baby skin with weather creams that contain beeswax and woolwax, for example. Especially the little face and the free spots that are exposed to wind and weather.
7. The right footwear
Pay attention to the right footwear! In mud, snow and ice, make sure you have a sufficient shoe profile. You definitely want to avoid falls with your baby! Spikes can provide additional support.
8. Quiet activities
Refrain from winter sports activities with your child in the baby carrier, e.g. cross-country skiing, tobogganing and ice skating. This can lead to life-threatening injuries.
9. Don't underestimate the winter temperatures
You move, but your child does not move! Hypothermia and frostbite can quickly occur while you're sweating. Therefore, always check regularly whether the child is doing well, it is not too cold and whether everything is sitting correctly.
10. The right measure counts
Last but not least: everything in moderation and don't overdo it. Avoid multi-hour tours in very cold temperatures. Fresh air is good for the baby, but it should not be exposed to icy winds for hours.
If you keep these tips in mind, then the wintry outdoor trip with your little darling will be an unforgettable experience!
Mama Nuka is the first sling that is purely plant-based and does not contain a drop of chemicals! Find out more about Mama Nuka here:
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