Freezing temperatures outside. Your toddler insists on short sleeves. You beg. They refuse. The coat battle starts before you even reach the door.
Research shows children have higher levels of brown adipose tissue, a type of fat that produces 300 times more heat than other body tissue. Your toddler feels less cold than you do.
Let natural consequences teach when safe. Above 50 degrees and short outdoor exposure means your child will not experience harm without a coat. Bring the coat along. Wait. When they feel cold, they will ask for it.
For below-freezing temps, offer choices within limits. Ask: Do you want your red jacket or blue one? Not: Do you want to wear a coat? This gives them control while keeping them safe.
Try layers instead of bulky coats. A long-sleeved shirt plus a hoodie feels less restrictive. Many toddlers resist coats because they feel confined during active play.
Leave coats unzipped until they have been outside for a few minutes. When they start feeling cold, they will zip up themselves and associate the coat with comfort, not discomfort.
For car trips, keep the coat off. Cover them with it like a blanket. Cars warm up fast and overheated toddlers become cranky.
Was this newsletter helpful? Just reply to this email. We would love to hear any feedback you have.
Calm Toddler Hacks provided by Chilkibo Publishing, helping families find their calm with trusted strategies.
