Is it safe to go outside with a baby during the winter?
Yes, you can go out with your baby even when the temperature drops below zero. Quebec winters, however intense and chilly they may be, shouldn't keep you housebound. The key is to dress your little one warmly, dry, and comfortable, no matter the temperature.
The golden rule is simple: your baby needs one more layer than you do. If you wear three layers, your little one will need four. But be careful, more layers don't mean tight clothing. The air trapped between the layers is what insulates and keeps the child warm.
The multi-layer system that actually works
Always start with a base layer made of breathable fabric, such as cotton or merino wool. This first layer stays close to the skin and wicks away moisture. Avoid synthetic fabrics that make your baby sweat.
The second layer provides insulation. Warm pajamas, a fleece vest, or a fleece jumpsuit work perfectly. This layer traps the child's body heat.
The outer layer should block the wind and protect against snow. A one-piece snowsuit is ideal for toddlers because there are no gaps where the cold can get in. Make sure it covers their wrists and ankles well.
Non-negotiable accessories
A hat is essential, even for a short outing. Babies lose a lot of heat through their heads. Choose a style that covers the ears well and stays in place without being too tight.
Mittens are more practical than gloves for babies. Look for models with a long cuff that can be tucked under the coat sleeves. Mittens tied together with a string? A tried-and-tested classic.
For your feet, two pairs of socks are often better than one thick pair. Winter boots should be warm, but above all, large enough not to compress your toes.
When to add therapeutic heat
Before going out in very cold weather, gently warming your baby can make all the difference. A therapeutic teddy bear heated for a few minutes in the microwave provides immediate comfort in the car seat or stroller.
Béké-Bobo teddy bears, classified as a medical device by Health Canada and the European Union, are designed specifically for toddlers. Their gentle, long-lasting warmth helps keep baby comfortable during winter outings without overheating.
Place the warm teddy bear near your baby's tummy, over the seat or stroller harness—not between the child and the harness—so they are securely fastened. This comforting warmth makes outings more pleasant, especially for babies who don't like sudden temperature changes.
Get more warmth and softness, shop for the Béké-Bobo therapeutic teddy bear!
Mistakes that cool baby
Never put a snowsuit on a child in a car seat. Thick coats compress under the straps and create a dangerous situation. Undress your baby, buckle them in, then cover them with a blanket or put the coat back on inside out over the straps.
Be careful not to overheat. An overdressed baby sweats, their clothes become damp, and they end up getting cold. Touch the back of their neck: it should be lukewarm, not hot or sweaty.
Outings longer than 30 minutes require extra vigilance when the temperature is below -15°C. Regularly check your baby's face to make sure they aren't getting cold. Very red or very pale cheeks, or an unusually calm or agitated baby are signs that it's time to go home.
Making winter outings a pleasant experience
Well-dressed babies can enjoy winter just as much as adults. Walks in the crisp, cold air even encourage better naps. Many parents notice that their baby sleeps more soundly after an outing.
In Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, babies nap outdoors year-round, even in temperatures as low as -10°C or -15°C. This centuries-old Nordic practice is based on a simple belief: fresh air strengthens the immune system and improves sleep quality. Scandinavian nurseries and daycare centers even set up their daily naps outside for babies, bundled up warmly in their snowsuits.
You don't need to go that far to enjoy the benefits of a Quebec winter. Keep your outings short at first, until your baby gets used to the cold. Fifteen minutes is enough for the first few times. You can gradually increase the duration over the weeks.
Quebec winters are a part of our reality for several months. With the right gear and a few simple tips, you and your baby can fully enjoy them instead of staying indoors until spring. Every family finds its own routine, and you'll quickly find yours.
