How to Protect a Child from the Cold: Signs, Measures, and Helpful Tips

What to do if the little one is cold, and how to properly warm and care for them.

A little one cannot clearly assess their feelings yet, so parents must monitor the signs of cold and respond in a timely manner.

Early Signs of Frostbite

Before the child starts shivering, pay attention to the following signals:

Cold hands and feet;
Palms under mittens are icy;
Loss of interest in play, lethargy;
Pale skin; lips are bluish;
Cyanosis of the nasolabial triangle.

Signs of Frostbite:

Paleness of the cheeks and tip of the nose;
Moisture and wind increase the risk even in mild frost.

Do not rub the whitened skin with snow — it may get scratched and become even colder. Cover the affected areas with a wool scarf and take the child to warmth.

Warming Up After Frostbite

At home, do not rush to remove the scarf or apply a hot water bottle;
Do not wash the child with warm water;
Warming should be gradual to avoid exacerbating the cold injury with heat;
Monitor the affected areas for 3–5 days:
- If the skin is swollen or bluish, or blisters appear — see a doctor.

Proper Clothing — Reliable Protection

Choose loose-fitting clothes to create an air layer for retaining heat;
Dress the child in one more layer than yourself;
Shoes should not be tight — the big toe should move freely;
Clothing that fits tightly to the body does not protect against the cold.

Walks in the Fresh Air

Even with a cold, if the temperature is normal, walks are not contraindicated;
Fresh air helps clear the nose;
Limit active games: better to go sledding or take calm walks;
Ensure that the child does not breathe through the mouth, does not sweat, and is not exposed to the wind.

Massage for Prevention and Treatment of Colds

Let the child bend at a right angle, resting their hands on the chair seat.
From behind, stroke with your palms: neck, shoulders, chest, upper abdomen, back, and lower back. Vary the pressure.
With quick circular movements clockwise, rub the skin over the shoulder blades and lower back on both sides.
With half-open fists, quickly tap from above, the side, and below the chest on each side.
Use your palms like an axe with chopping movements across the chest on the right and left.
Quickly pinch the skin with all fingers from top to bottom from the neck to the lower back (stopping 2 cm from the spine), alternating sides.