Kids snow day essentials

Spending time outside with kids in winter can be challenging. Sledding, skiing and snowball fights will drive them mad for more – but you’ll need to be well-prepped for their changes in temperature and mood. Start by getting them wrapped up from head-to-toe in a comfy and practical winter outfit.

Help your kids feel cosy and warm with a thermal or merino baselayer. It’s a critical piece of clothing which has a key job – to insulate and draw sweat away from your child’s body. Merino long sleeve shirts and t-shirts(/search/merino.html) are longtime favourites in our travel bag because they've got great warmth for their weight, and because they're odour resistant – they don't need much washing.

Alternatively, Polypropylene will also give your kid dependable insulation against the elements while being lightweight, quick drying and breathable. Trusted by families for generations - polypro is your affordable choice for warmth and comfort.

The fundamental characteristic of a midlayer is to protect your kid from wind while retaining body heat. Look for one that will both insulate and also offer breathability to help sweat escape. Avoid dressing kids in cotton for this layer as cotton absorbs moisture and will make them wet.

A lightweight fleece is a far better option to keep you warm and dry for your trip up the mountain.

Another vital part of your little ones snow attire is the outer layer. Dressing your kids in waterproof and breathable jackets and pants (or overalls) is essential to keeping them dry – and protecting them when they inevitably create snow angels!

• Socks

Cold toes are right up there with cold fingers – they’re unwelcome. Choose the right kind of fabric when buying socks, so they can focus on their next run rather than their chilly toes.

• Boots

Good socks alone aren't worth much without a shoe to match. Give your kid the confidence to stomp through the snow and jump into puddles. Think waterproof, warmth and grippy. Slipping on icy snow is the last thing you want your youngster to do.

A few other questions to ask when deciding on your kid’s boots: Are they easy to get on and off? Do they fit perfectly? Are they light enough to wear for long periods of time?

• Beanie

Children are still learning to regulate temperature, but they can let you know when they have cold fingers. So, gloves or mittens? Gloves will allow them to use their fine motor skills, whereas mittens will potentially keep fingers warmer for longer (mittens are especially good for the younger the kids to stay warm longer).

• Gloves

At the end of the day, gloves vs mittens is down to personal preference - so we think it's wise to let your kid make the call on this one.

• Scarf

Is there anything cuter than a kid bundled up in a cosy scarf? Scarfs are a practical and adorable way to keep your wee one warm. Neck gaiters are also super practical for snow ball fights, high energy days in the snow and little kids that struggle with wrapping up in a scarf.

• Googles

Kids love to look cool so they’ll want to roll with their favourite sunnies up the slopes. But for better protection and less likelihood of losing eyewear on the mountain, get them some snow goggles with a UPF rating.

• Helmet

If you’re taking your little person up the piste, a good snow helmet is a necessity.

• Other items that are essential on the mountain include:

• Sunscreen – snow reflects UV light in bucketloads so pay special attention to your kid’s nose, ears and under their chin.

• Food – the only thing worse than a cold, wet kid is a cold, wet and hungry one.

• Drink – water is obviously an essential, but there's a special kind of magic that comes from a thermos of hot chocolate on a cold day.