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As winter weather sets in, it is essential for infant-toddler teachers to prioritize safety and emergency preparedness in their classrooms and care settings.
Infants and toddlers are particularly vulnerable to extreme temperatures and winter hazards due to their limited ability to regulate body temperature and their reliance on caregivers for protection. Ensuring warmth during outdoor activities and transitions between indoor and outdoor environments is crucial. Dressing children in multiple layers—such as a base layer, insulating layer (e.g., fleece or wool), and a waterproof outer layer—along with hats, mittens, and waterproof boots, is recommended. Infants lose heat rapidly through their heads, so hats are especially important.
Outdoor play should be limited when wind chills fall below 20°F or when hazardous conditions, like ice or sleet, prevail.
Winter storms and extreme weather events can disrupt daily routines, so preparedness is vital. Classrooms should be stocked with essential items, including non-perishable food, infant formula, bottled water, warm blankets, spare clothing, flashlights with extra batteries, and first aid kits. Teachers should also familiarize themselves with emergency evacuation protocols, practicing drills with staff for quick responses. Additionally, keeping updated emergency contact information for each child and communicating winter weather policies with families are key elements of effective preparedness.
Child Care Aware of NH is here to support child care programs in improving emergency preparedness through our Progressive Training and Technical Assistance Program. We offer personalized training to help boost program quality and long-term success. We also assist programs in developing their Emergency Operations Plan and Continuity of Operations Plan, plus guide them through practice Emergency Response Drills so they’re better equipped for any emergency.
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