What should your baby wear today? Use this temperature guide to decide
Now all you need to do is check the forecast.
@Hanni via Twenty20
Too hot. Too cold. Just right. Like Goldilocks, little ones can be quite particular about outdoor temperatures since their bodies aren't able to regulate internal temperatures as well as adults. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, "Because of their unique physiology, children are more susceptible to temperature extremes and their health effects."
For that reason, there are simply some extreme conditions when it isn't safe for your baby to spend time outside: With extreme heat, dehydration, fatigue and headaches are possible. With very low temperatures, hypothermia is a bigger threat to young children than it is to adults.
Related: 4 baby clothes must-haves for their (perfectly adorable) wardrobe
The good news? That's in extreme conditions. For the most part, the right clothes and types of layers can keep your baby comfortable.
"The general rule of thumb is that your baby should be dressed in one more layer than you feel comfortable in," said Diana Spalding, CNM. "If you are happy with one long-sleeve shirt, your baby should probably have a long-sleeve onesie, plus another shirt or light jacket on top."
Still, even knowing how to dress yourself can feel complicated sometimes. That's why we created a handy cheat sheet for how to dress your baby based on outside temperature.
Keep in mind that other factors can affect your comfort outside, such as humidity, windchill and the sun. When in doubt, dress your baby in layers that you can easily add to or shed!
For expectant parents, it also helps to plan ahead to know what types of clothes to buy in what sizes based on how old your baby will be during winter, spring, summer or fall. Here are some of our favorite layers to add to your baby registry!
Get more expert advice and curated collections in Motherly's Essential Registry Guide. You've got this, mama!
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