"What, no hat?" Likely, youvve heard this annoying admonishment when out and about with your baby in winter. But here's what your snow angel would tell you himself, if he could, about keeping him warm on cold days.
- "That nosy lady is right -- I need a hat." Most of your baby's body heat is lost through his head.
- "You're not dressed for a trip to the moon. Why am I?" Wrap your baby in one more layer (not five) than you're wearing, says Tanya Remer Altmann, M.D., author of Mommy Calls: Dr. Tanya Answers Parents' Top 101 Questions About Babies and Toddlers. A stroller blanket is the perfect extra layer.
- "I'll let you know when I'm cold." You can count on your baby to fuss and protest when the chill gets to him and it's time to head indoors. His cheeks may turn bright red and feel cold to the touch, too, adds Dr. Altmann.
- "Get me out of the house!" "Babies need fresh air," says Dr. Altmann, so don't be afraid of winter weather. Exception: When the temperature drops to near freezing, stay outside no longer than it takes to get in and out of the car.
