Rainy Day Walks With Small Children
Stay Warm and Dry With Wet Weather Clothing
While it is possible to stay indoors during rainy weather, sometimes cabin fever hits and people feel the need to go outside. Walks are a great way for small children to burn off energy, even if the weather is wet. Rainy day hikes and walks are a perfect way for the whole family to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. Just be prepared for the wet weather!
Gather Your Wet Weather Gear
Being comfortable in the rain is the key to a fun rainy day walk. Plan for a comfortable rainy season. As the family gets ready for the wet season, consider what clothing will keep them comfortable. How long will they be outdoors? What do they plan to do outside?
Prepare for the Cold
If it is cool, think about layers. Stay warm and dry. Long underwear, wool sweaters, and thick socks are all important. Wool is an excellent choice because it repels water when it is wet and keeps you warm when it is cold outside. It can also go on and off in layers. For small children who overheat easily, consider making wool longies to place over the pants. These can easily be removed when children go inside.
Invest in a Good Rain Jacket and Boots
Invest in a good set of rain gear in a size that is a little too large. Add layers of clothing underneath. There is no need to buy rain gear every season. Since rain boots leak heat and cause cold toes, ideally, choose lined rain boots or ones with room for more than one pair of socks. Look for a good rain jacket with seams that don't leak. Although there are many windbreaker-style jackets for children that also repel water, spend money on a good waterproof jacket. To be outdoors in wet weather for any length of time, choose excellent waterproof clothing.
Rain Pants Are Important for Comfort
Rain pants are often ignored, but they are an essential part of comfortable rainy day clothing. Rain jackets often drip down onto pants, and if a child's legs are unprotected they will quickly get wet and cold. Nylon rain pants are an inexpensive and versatile investment. Often, they can be used in light snow as well. The bottoms of the rain pants can go over the tops on the rain boots. This will prevent a lot of water going down the boots when children jumps into puddles.
Rain Hats Keep Your Head Warm
Most body heat leaves through the head. If it is really cold, consider putting a waterproof hat on top of a woolen one. Think about the back of the child's neck. Is the rain dripping down when family members put on their hats? Tuck a warm hat on a child's head, then pull up the hood on the rain jacket. Proper wet weather hats will keep kids warm and dry.
Bring Food As Rainy Day Fuel
Once the rainy day clothes are out, make sure to pack a snack! Young children are notoriously hungry people, and little people get big appetites when they are outside. Think about bringing some warm milk or herbal tea to warm up with on the hike as well.
Ready for the rainy day walk? Now it's time to think about ways to explore outdoors. Whether it's stomping in puddles or going for a worm hunt, there are so many things to do with a small child in rainy weather. Good clothing will help the exploring happen in comfort. Enjoy!
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