Top Tips on Caring for Your Baby in Winter
Almost every animal on earth has a special season when most of its babies are born. In Canada, this drama plays out in iconic ways. Think of the caribou migration to ancient calving grounds or the millions of birds that flock to northern prairies. Or imagine baby bear cubs emerging from their protected dens for a first glimpse at the world outside.
We humans are one of the only creatures in Nature who don’t have a special season, meaning our newborns might make their debut in summer’s warmth—or in the depths of winter. As any mother soon learns, having a winter baby in the north takes some extra preparation.
Fortunately, there’s plenty we can do. In fact, we have it easy in general when compared to many of Canada’s residents. We don’t have to grow a new coat to blend in with the snow, like the Arctic fox, ptarmigan, or snowshoe rabbit. We don’t have to trek long distances for food, like the pine marten. And we certainly don’t have to eat 20,000 or more calories per day in preparation for a long winter’s sleep, like a pregnant grizzly bear. Here are tips on how to care for your baby in winter.
The challenges of winter baby care
Cold winter days may be made for baby snuggling, but there are some key things to remember. First, even when the world is not in the midst of a pandemic, it’s important to protect your baby from infections. Babies have more fragile immune systems than adults, and it takes time for their defenses to develop. Winter is the height of cold and flu season. For safety, many new parents limit who visits the baby in the first four to eight weeks of life. In addition, be sure you and your partner (as well as any visitors) practice good hygiene like frequent hand washing and disinfection of high-contact surfaces. Remember, if your baby is a newborn, any fever is a reason to consult your pediatrician right away.
In winter, you and your baby can benefit from time outside, but it can be a struggle to make it happen. Winter’s rain, ice and snow can make going outside seem a chore (and struggling with a stroller less appealing). Take the time to layer your baby (for tips, see the next section), even if you’re just going outside briefly. It is worth it: Remember that exposure to natural light can help your baby’s circadian rhythm, meaning fewer mixed-up days and nights. The cold air can also help to counter the sleep deprivation many new mothers face.
Layering your baby for winter
How should you dress your baby in winter? In short: in layers, which are effective at trapping heat. A good rule of thumb is that your baby should have on one more layer than you do. If you’re inside, this means a blanket or sleep sack. If you’re outside, this means an extra covering for the stroller (in addition to a few things).
Babies lose a lot of heat through their heads because their heads are very large in proportion to their bodies. Because of this, your baby should always wear a hat when going outside. Even if those little hands are going to be under a blanket, be sure to put mittens on. Fleece-lined stroller and carseat covers are also a popular choice for winter layering and car travel.
Layering your baby for sleep
Your baby should sleep in a quiet, dark room. In general, experts recommend that a baby’s room be kept at 18 to 22 degrees Celsius (68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit) to prevent overheating and promote a safe, healthy sleep environment. Many new parents rely on swaddling to soothe their babies for sleep. Because you should always make sure there is nothing else in the crib except a fitted sheet, you can layer your baby under the swaddle. In cold weather, add a layer like a footed sleeper.
You can check your baby using the back of your hand on her chest or tummy. If she feels overly warm or is perspiring, remove one layer. If she feels cooler to the touch, add a layer.
It can also be a challenge to get layering right—for you. New mothers’ hormone levels can fluctuate wildly in the six to eight weeks after birth. This is when many women experience postpartum night sweats, which are normal but can mean waking up drenched in sweat. Consider keeping a change of pajamas handy bedside.
You’ll also want to learn to layer for nighttime feedings. A warm robe and slippers can make it easier to get out of bed and be patient while you nurse (or bottle feed) your baby.
Winter baby skin care
Dry winter skin can affect adults as well as babies. Drier indoor air in some areas contributes to dry, cracked hands, feet, and lips. You can help to protect your baby’s skin during the winter, too.
While a bath time routine can be soothing, frequent bathing can dry out your baby’s delicate skin. Skip the bath from time to time to protect her skin. When you do bathe your baby, be sure the water is warm to the touch, not hot. Moisturize with a gentle baby lotion after the bath. If your home is very dry, you might consider using a humidifier to help with dry skin, too.
If your baby’s skin is dry, it can become irritated more easily. Choose soft fabrics and opt for gentle, scent-free skin products (be sure to consult your pediatrician, of course).
Winter can be a very special time to bond with a new baby, even if this season does come with its challenges. Here’s hoping you and your baby enjoy getting to know each other during these winter months.
