New Delhi: As winter sets in, parents instinctively want to protect their children from the cold, often layering them in thick jackets, scarves, gloves, and multiple clothing layers. While keeping kids warm is important, pediatric experts warn that overdressing children in winter can sometimes do more harm than good, potentially affecting their growth and overall health.

Why Overdressing Can Be Harmful

Impedes Natural Thermoregulation:

Children’s bodies are naturally capable of regulating their temperature.

Excessive layers trap heat, making children sweat, which can lead to skin irritation, rashes, or even dehydration.

Overheating may also make the body less efficient at adapting to seasonal temperature changes, which is important for metabolic and immune system development.

Restricts Physical Activity:

Thick clothing can limit mobility, discouraging kids from running, playing, and exercising outdoors.

Physical activity is essential for muscle development, bone growth, and coordination.

Overdressed children may also overheat quickly during play, reducing the duration of outdoor activity.

Impacts Growth Hormones:

Moderate exposure to outdoor temperatures helps regulate melatonin and growth hormones, both crucial for healthy growth.

Children who are constantly bundled up may get less exposure to mild cold, which some studies suggest is beneficial for metabolic function and energy regulation.

Increases Risk of Illness from Sudden Temperature Changes:

Constantly overdressed children may sweat indoors and then data-face cold outdoor air, making them more susceptible to colds, flu, or respiratory infections.

Tips for Safe and Comfortable Winter Dressing

Layer Wisely:

Use light layers that can be added or removed as needed.

A base layer (cotton or moisture-wicking fabric), a middle layer (sweater or fleece), and a light jacket are usually sufficient.

Avoid Heavy Coats Indoors:

Thick jackets or parkas are not necessary when indoors. Encourage children to remove outer layers when inside schools or homes.

Choose Breathable Fabrics:

Natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and fleece blends help maintain warmth without causing excessive sweating.

Monitor Temperature and Comfort:

Check if your child is too warm by feeling their neck or back. Hands and feet may be slightly cooler than the core, which is normal.

Encourage Outdoor Play:

Allow children to play outside in moderate layers. Mild exposure to cold helps boost immunity, vitamin D production, and physical activity.

Use Accessories Judiciously:

Scarves, hats, and gloves are important outdoors but can be removed indoors or during active play to avoid overheating.

The Bottom Line

While protecting children from the cold is important, overdressing them can interfere with natural growth, comfort, and immunity. parents should focus on flexible, breathable layers that allow kids to adapt to changing temperatures, stay active, and enjoy the winter season safely.

Pediatricians recommend observing your child’s comfort, rather than relying solely on the thermometer or extreme precaution, to ensure both warmth and healthy growth during winter months.

 

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