There is a good reason why Minnesota is referred to as 'Minnesnowta". For parents, winter snow fall means longer drives to work, slippery driveways and sidewalks, and wet, soggy snowsuits to hang up to dry. For children, snow represents an amazing world of white wonders and fun outdoor activities. The following tips from "What to Expect the Second Year", (Murkoff & Mazsel, 2011)will help parents keep their child safe in the snow:
Ensure safe sledding
Your toddler might now be ready to hit the black diamond hills on skis, but he will probably enjoy a tobagan ride or sled pull. For younger children, a sled with a seat and seat belt is the safest way to go.
Ban snow consumption
It seems like children have an immediate attraction to wanting to eat snow. But, snow can be contaminated by animal urine, feces, dirt or chemical pollutants. Your sneaky little one might get a couple handfuls in without you noticing, but the important things is to stop snow eating when you first spot it and allows follow through when you see it happening.
Know when to call it quits
Remember when you were young and it seemed like you never, ever got cold? Don't wait for your child to start complaining about being cold. When you start to feel cold, it's time to bring the kids in. Also, keep an eye on your child's snowsuit because it can get very wet with snow and that will cause your child to be even colder. Mixing wet with freezing temperatures means possible frostbite.
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