There are a number of things we as parents might not be aware of yet. Thankfully, we are continually learning and adjusting our methods as new information comes out like info on winter coat safety.
During this National Child Safety and Prevention Month we examined some resources for children of all ages and stages to help protect them from everyday hazards. As the cold has already started to lay its icy grip on the weather and winter coats are coming out, we have some great tips to share to keep our kids safe during this wintry season.
According to www.consumerreports.com, here are the things to keep in mind as cold weather sets in:
Puffy coat check: How to tell if your child’s coat is too bulky 
- As a general rule, puffy coats should not be worn underneath a car seat harness because it can leave the harness too loose to be effective in a crash.
- Check your child by placing them in their car seat with their puffy winter jacket on, buckle the child in, tightening the harness until you are no longer able to pinch any webbing with your finger and your forefinger.
- Do not loosen the harness, unbuckle your child from the car seat. Take the child’s coat off and place your child back in his or her car seat, and buckle them in. Now that the harness is adjusted you should be able to see how loose the harness is while in their jacket.
- TIP: If you can pinch the webbing between your thumb and forefinger now, then the coat is too bulky to be worn under a harness.
Cited from: Thomas, Emily A PH.D (2018 October) “The Dangers of Winter Coats” retrieved October 31, 2019 from www.consumerreports.com
How to stay warm in the car while being safe
- Infants: put in warmer clothing. Use a blanket or a car seat cover up to keep them warm and make sure the top is open.
- Toddlers and older children: put the child in the car seat, buckle them in the harness and put their coat on backwards with their arms in the jacket to keep them warm.
- Always make sure you have extra hats, gloves and boots in the vehicle.
As the weather continues to get colder, please make sure you are taking all precautions necessary to ensure your child is warm.
At Children of Tomorrow Learning Center, we follow all precautions necessary to make sure all children are safe and adhere to licensing policies and procedures. Follow us on our Facebook page to see further tips and learn more about our programs.
We hope you have a fantastic November and thank you for being a part of Children of Tomorrow Learning Center.
Best,
Mara Habisch
Director of Core Values
mara@childrenoftomorrow.com
For more information on Children of Tomorrow Learning Centers, visit our website www.childrenoftomorrow.com