As a parent, getting your toddler to wear gloves can be a frustrating experience.
Toddlers can be stubborn and resist wearing gloves, even when it’s cold outside.
However, it’s important to keep your child’s hands warm and protected from the cold weather to prevent illness and discomfort.
In this article, I will share some tips and tricks that have worked for me in getting my toddler to wear gloves.
The first thing to consider is the temperature outside. According to OZKIZ, kids should wear gloves when the temperature is 40°F or lower. If it’s not cold enough, your child may not see the need to wear gloves. On the other hand, if it’s too cold, your child may be more willing to wear gloves to stay warm.
It’s important to find a balance and make sure your child is comfortable.
Another thing to consider is sensory issues. Some children may not like the feeling of gloves on their hands, especially if they are made of a scratchy or uncomfortable material. In this case, it may be helpful to find gloves that are made of a soft and comfortable material, such as fleece or cotton. You can also try letting your child pick out their own gloves with a fun design or color to make them more appealing.
Why Gloves are Important
As a parent, I understand how difficult it can be to get a toddler to wear gloves. However, it is important to ensure that your child’s hands are protected from the cold weather, especially during outdoor activities. Here are some reasons why gloves are important:
Protection from Cold
When the temperature drops, it is important to keep your child’s hands warm and dry. Gloves are an essential part of winter gear that can help protect your child’s hands from the cold. According to the World Health Organization, gloves should be worn when it can be reasonably anticipated that contact with blood or other body fluids, mucous membranes, non-intact skin or potentially infectious material will occur. For toddlers and young kids, it is important to cover their head, feet, and ears, and use waterproof mittens for snow play.
When choosing gloves for your child, make sure they are warm, comfortable, and fit properly. Mittens are easier for toddlers to wear than gloves, so most parents choose them over gloves. However, it’s also important to consider what your child will be doing when wearing them. For activities that require more dexterity, gloves may be a better option.
It’s also important to ensure that your child’s gloves are dry. Wet gloves can make your child’s hands feel colder and increase the risk of frostbite. Make sure to bring an extra pair of gloves in case the first pair gets wet or lost.
Choosing the Right Gloves
Getting your toddler to wear gloves can be a challenge, but choosing the right gloves can make all the difference. Here are some factors to consider when selecting gloves for your little one.
Mittens vs Gloves
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with mittens or gloves. Mittens are generally warmer than gloves because they keep all fingers together, which helps to trap heat. However, gloves offer more dexterity, which can be important for activities like playing with toys or using a touchscreen device. Consider your child’s needs and preferences when making this decision.
Material
The material of the gloves is also an important factor to consider. Look for gloves made from warm, breathable materials like fleece or wool. Waterproof mittens are also a good option for playing in the snow or rain. Avoid gloves made from materials that can irritate your child’s skin or cause an allergic reaction.
Size
Choosing the right size is crucial for ensuring that your child’s gloves fit properly and keep their hands warm. Gloves that are too big can be cumbersome and difficult to wear, while gloves that are too small will be uncomfortable and restrict movement. Measure your child’s hand and refer to size charts provided by manufacturers to find the best fit.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best gloves for your toddler and increase the chances that they will wear them. Some of the best toddler gloves on the market include the 7 Best Toddler Gloves and Mittens of 2023, which offer a range of styles and materials to choose from.
Getting Your Toddler Used to Gloves
If you’re struggling to get your toddler to wear gloves, you’re not alone. Many parents have faced this challenge. But don’t worry, with patience and persistence, you can help your child get used to wearing gloves. Here are some tips:
Start Early
It’s never too early to start getting your child used to wearing gloves. Even if your child is still a baby, you can start by putting on soft gloves during diaper changes or when going outside in cold weather. This will help your child get used to the sensation of wearing gloves and make it easier to transition to more structured gloves later on.
Make it Fun
One way to get your child excited about wearing gloves is to make it fun. You can buy gloves with fun designs or colors, or decorate plain gloves with stickers or markers. You can also turn putting on gloves into a game, such as seeing who can put on their gloves the fastest or playing a game of “Simon says” with putting on and taking off gloves.
Model the Behavior
Toddlers often learn by watching and imitating others. If your child sees you wearing gloves, they may be more likely to want to wear gloves too. You can also make a game out of matching gloves, where you and your child both wear matching gloves. This can make wearing gloves feel like a fun and special activity.
It’s important to keep in mind that some toddlers may have sensory issues that make wearing gloves uncomfortable or overwhelming. If your child is resistant to wearing gloves, try to be patient and understanding. You can also try different types of gloves, such as gloves made of different materials or with different textures, to find a pair that your child is comfortable wearing.
Tips for Keeping Gloves On
As a parent, I know how challenging it can be to get toddlers to wear gloves during the winter season. Here are a few tips that have worked for me:
Use Clips or Strings
One of the easiest ways to keep gloves on your toddler’s hands is to use clips or strings. These can be attached to the gloves and then secured to the coat or jacket. This way, the gloves won’t come off even if your toddler tries to take them off. Be sure to use clips or strings that are safe and won’t pose a choking hazard to your child.
Choose Gloves with Buttons or Velcro
Gloves with buttons or velcro can be a great option for toddlers who are constantly taking their gloves off. These types of gloves are easy to put on and take off, but they stay securely in place once they are on. Look for gloves with buttons or velcro that are easy for your child to fasten and unfasten on their own.
It’s important to remember that every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Keep trying different strategies until you find the one that works best for your child.
Other strategies you can try include:
- Getting gloves that fit properly
- Making sure your child is comfortable in their gloves
- Letting your child pick out their own gloves
- Offering positive reinforcement when your child keeps their gloves on
Remember, keeping your child’s hands warm and protected during the winter season is important for their health and well-being. With a little patience and persistence, you can find a solution that works for you and your child.
Final Thoughts
Getting a toddler to wear gloves can be a challenging task, but it is not impossible. Through my research and personal experience, I have found that there are several effective ways to encourage your child to wear gloves in the winter.
First and foremost, it is important to choose the right type of gloves for your child. Look for gloves that are warm, comfortable, and easy to put on and take off. Consider investing in snow mittens with straps for tightening, as they can help keep the gloves in place and prevent them from falling off.
It is also important to involve your child in the process of choosing their gloves. Let them pick out a pair of gloves that they like and are excited to wear. This can make them more willing to put them on and keep them on.
Another strategy is to make wearing gloves a fun and enjoyable experience. Play games with your child that involve wearing gloves, such as building a snowman or having a snowball fight. This can help them associate wearing gloves with positive experiences and make them more likely to wear them in the future.
Finally, consider the cost of the gloves. While it may be tempting to buy the cheapest pair of gloves available, investing in a high-quality pair of gloves can be worth it in the long run. Not only will they keep your child’s hands warm and dry, but they may also last longer and save you money in the long run.
By following these tips and strategies, you can help your child stay warm and comfortable during the winter months while also teaching them the importance of wearing gloves. Remember, patience and persistence are key, and with time and practice, your child will learn to love their gloves and wear them without hesitation.
