Winter Safety Tips for Nursery Children
Keeping young children safe in winter starts with simple, thoughtful routines that protect them from cold weather, illness, and slippery conditions. Early years winter safety habits ensure little ones stay warm, active, and healthy throughout the season.
In this guide, we’ll outline the key steps to help keep nursery children safe during the colder months.
Why Winter Safety Matters for Nursery Children
Winter adds extra risks, such as cold temperatures, darker days, and icy surfaces, which require closer attention in early years settings. Young children are especially vulnerable, as they lose heat quickly and have lower immunity.
Here’s what this means for nursery-aged children:
How Cold Weather Affects Young Children
Young children cool down faster than adults because their bodies are smaller and still developing. According to the NHS, cold exposure increases the risk of respiratory infections, making warm clothing essential.
Common Winter Risks in Early Years Settings
Slippery playgrounds, sudden temperature drops, and increased illness rates are the top concerns. Simple checks and quick action help reduce these risks significantly.
Essential Winter Clothing for Nursery Children
Warm, layered clothing helps children stay comfortable and prevents issues like chills and dry skin. Layers also make it easy to adjust to indoor heating and outdoor temperatures.
Below are key ways to keep little ones prepared:
Choosing Safe and Warm Layers
Layering traps heat efficiently. Cotton base layers, warm jumpers, and waterproof outerwear work best for active play.
Footwear That Prevents Slips
Shoes with a strong grip and secure fastening reduce the chance of falls on wet or frosty ground.
Accessories for Extra Protection
Hats, scarves, and gloves prevent heat loss, with nearly 10% of body heat escaping from the head alone.
Outdoor Play Safety in Winter
Children can enjoy outdoor learning safely with the right precautions. Short, supervised sessions help them stay active while avoiding overexposure to cold.
To keep outdoor play safe and enjoyable, nurseries focus on a few essential checks:
Checking Outdoor Surfaces
Daily checks for ice patches and wet leaves ensure safer play areas.
Keeping Playtime Short and Supervised
Shorter outdoor sessions balance fresh air with warmth, supporting winter wellbeing.
Using High-Visibility Clothing
Bright coats and vests make it easier for staff to supervise during darker afternoons.
Preventing Winter Illnesses in Early Years Settings
Good hygiene and warm environments are key to reducing winter illnesses such as colds and coughs.
Here are the steps nurseries use to keep children as healthy as possible:
Handwashing and Hygiene Practices
Regular handwashing lowers the spread of viruses, especially before meals and after outdoor play.
Ventilation and Indoor Warmth Balance
Nurseries keep rooms warm while allowing fresh air to circulate, which helps reduce bacteria.
Recognising Early Symptoms of Seasonal Illnesses
Spotting signs early, such as tiredness or sneezing, helps protect other children.
How Nursery Schools in Wimbledon Keep Children Safe in Winter
Local nurseries follow structured procedures to ensure that safety measures for nursery children are in place daily.
Here’s how Wimbledon's early years settings stay winter-ready:
Daily Safety Checks and Staff Training
Teams assess indoor and outdoor environments to maintain high safety standards.
Warm, Clean, and Well-Ventilated Rooms
Rooms stay cosy, clean, and properly aired to support child safety in winter.
Clear Communication with Parents
Nurseries share updates, reminders, and winter guidance to keep families informed.
Keep Your Child Safe and Thriving This Winter
Nurseries like Wimbledon Day Nursery follow early years winter safety practices and create warm, nurturing spaces where children feel protected and confident through every season.
Get in touch with them today to book a visit or learn more about their winter safety approach.

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