Updated: Oct 1, 2019
Babywearing in the colder months can be very challenging for caregivers who are trying to stay active throughout the fall and winter. But there are so many benefits to enjoy when getting outdoors with little ones!
Benefits of the Outdoors
Ever since my kids were tiny babies, I have found that getting outdoors was helpful for:
-building memories and bonding with the kids
-reducing the late afternoon cranky times
-diffusing tantrums
-staying active and healthy
-learning about and appreciating nature
Cozy Items to Keep you Warm
For this post, I have collected a few of my favourite cozy items needed to enjoy the colder months outdoors. These ideas are easy and practical, and will help keep you comfortable and warm. Use this information however it is helpful- as a guideline for using items you already own, or for finding some new products that will help you be comfortable and safe this winter.
Where I live on the Alberta Prairies, we get up to 7 months of cold weather through the winter. We do get snow, but hardly have any rain, so my recommendations are ideal for those living in a similar climate. However, with the right layers, you will stay warm and comfortable through many seasons!
Keeping your CORE Warm
Caregivers that have already been babywearing for a while know that carrying babies directly on your body can be quite warm. The main challenge for winter babywearing is keeping the exposed body parts covered and protected (ie: arms, neck, your back, baby’s back, etc). The Cozy Cover UP Sweater can be a great item for keeping your core body temperature warm through the cold weather (see it in action here!).
This sweatshirt is made with high quality Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified rayon from bamboo/cotton blend stretch fleece, that is fuzzy and cozy on the inside, and smooth on the outside. In fabric terms, it weighs about 300 grams per square meter, meaning it is warm and heavy weight. You can read more about this fabric on the blog here.
The pullover sweatshirt is a relaxed fit, making it ideal for layering. During the coldest weather, I like to wear a medium weight long sleeved shirt underneath, with baby dressed in a fleecy sleeper or other warm outfit. If expecting rain or snow, you can layer a larger sized waterproof vest or windbreaker over the sweatshirt. If babywearing is new to you (or even for the vetrans, its a great reminder!), I recommend reviewing the safety guidelines as explained by the BCIA here.
{As an added bonus, Cover UP Sweaters also make super comfortable sweatshirts for lounging around the house, cuddling, breastfeeding, summer camping and more. You can find lots of customer photos on our IG stories.}
Keeping your HANDS Warm
If you’re like me, you hate being cold, but always have cold hands. I love it when my hoodies and sweatshirts have built in thumb hole cuffs with the extra long sleeves. This makes it easy to keep your hands warmer in the cool weather.
If the climate is very cold, a cozy pair of mittens is a must have! Mittens are also a great gift giving idea, and I stock handmade ones in the shop through the fall and winter.
Keeping your HEAD/NECK Warm
A cozy scarf is essential for keeping the cool air off your face, head and neck. Infinity scarves, blanket scarves, or chunky knit scarves are my favourites. The Cover UP Sweater also has a cowl neck to keep you warm and cozy.
A soft and stretchy toque is another great accessory to help keep your head and ears warm in the winter. A toque is a stylish way to keep warm anytime, so I always keep one for me and each of the kids tucked into the diaper bag.
A free baby toque comes with each Cover UP Sweater, and during the fall and winter, I also sell toques for the whole family.
Keeping You and Your Baby Warm
Simply put, layering comfortable and cozy pieces is key for babywearing in the cold months. My shop is full of warm and stylish items to help caregivers and their little ones stay warm and happy! No matter how you decide to keep warm this fall and winter, I hope that your babywearing adventures are enjoyable 🙂 Do you have a favourite winter wear item? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!
Much love,
Tabetha
