How Cold Is Too Cold??

I would say 30 minutes at a time. I know it may not seem like much time, but they're still very young. And I don't think I'd let them go outside if it's below 30. That's about the average cut-off temp. the schools use, for recess. And since they ARE so young, they don't really need that much time in the snow anyways. Just enough to get some fresh air and give them a break from the mundane indoor activities throughout the winter.

Hi E.,
I was told that babies don't get any colder/hotter than adults do. In fact, we tend to bundle them up too much.
I would use your motherly instinct. I think layering them and only taking them out a few mintues at a time shouldn't hurt them. Have fun!
G.

It might help to know that elementary schools in the area do not let children have outside recess when the temp is below 30 degrees.

When you let them go out do it in short intervals. Dont send them out if the wind is blowing too much. A gentle breeze is ok but when snow starts blowing into their face they probably wont be having fun.

I think it is more depending on how long you let them to stay outside, i let them run and play outside for 10-15 minutes. A under shirt,long sleeves, snow jacket, snow pant, hat and glove are must. As long as their head and neck are well covered, i think they are warm enough.

E.,

Some schools use 29 degrees, after chill factor, as the limit. I have even heard of 26 degrees, but of course, the students are only out 15-30 minutes max, and they must be dressed properly.

Like the others said, if they're dressed warm, at least get out for ten minutes if you need to.

Look at the wind chill and how much the wind is blowing in addition to the temperature. It tends to be in the 40's and 50's a lot through the winter here, and as long as the wind chill isn't lower than 30 you'd be fine to take them outside. At these ages, I think 30 degrees is about right for a minimum temperature, but as they get older they will be able to tolerate lower temperatures and also be able to tell you if they are getting too cold. I agree with the other moms that say about 30 minutes is about right, but to watch their noses. My parents always put a decent coat of Eucerin cream on our faces before they sent us outside to prevent irritation and chapping, and it really worked well. Good for you for wanting to let your kids play outside- too many people coop their kids up during the winter and they miss out on a lot of fun!

Ok this isn't advice but i had to comment on your daughters name, my caity is 4 and my mother gave me so much grief over the spelling and always spells it with a k. nice to see i'm not the only mom out there that stuck with this spelling of caitlin.

Hello, I also have a 22month old son and a 3 yr old daughter and last year I let them both play in the snow. Bundle them up in a couple layers. Make sure there feet and hands and there noses stay warm. Just check on them and let them only play in maybe 30 minute intervals. Have Fun.

It sounds like they're bundled up enough so I would say let them go out and play. They only get one chance to be a kid. I would say let them play for about an hour. I can't see getting them all dressed and ready play then bringing them in the house 15 min. later. I know my 3 yr. old wouldn't be very happy about that at all!! You're their mom, you know when their noses are getting a little too red and it's time to go inside. Use your own good judgement, no one knows your kids like you do.

Happy Holidays,
M.

I have always been told that one more layer then what you are wearing. If you do that then I would only keep them out for about a hour or so and just keep checking them. Have fun!!!