It seems that every home has a drafty room that requires constant attention to keep the temperature regulated. When this is a new baby’s room, some negative side effects can result in a lack of attention to detail. The real issue isn’t just the fact that the room can be difficult to regulate, but that your baby is not as good at regulating their body temperature as you are yet. So when a room gets cold, the baby can’t warm themselves up as easily as you can. The negatives are plentiful, but knowledge will ensure that you know what to watch out for and create a plan to keep your child warm during the colder parts of the year.
The real dangers of a cold baby room are all easily rectified through the use of some simple clothing or items that can be placed in the room. We will discuss humidifiers and layered clothing throughout this article, but also make sure you have the knowledge in how these items can be dangerous as well. This is not a list to scare you, but to inform you. If you know how your baby works, you are more prepared to deal with a difficult room and ensure that your baby is comfortable.
Some of the things on this list may be common knowledge, but the “why” will be explained in more detail here. Your baby likely can’t communicate to you in a way you wish they could. When they cry or rub their eyes, they are trying to tell you something. By going in with an idea of what to watch for, you will be more prepared to read those signs and know what your little one is trying to tell you. With this knowledge you can take action to rectify the situation.
As this is not an article that is meant to be used as medical advice, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s pediatrician if you are ever concerned about their well being. As a parent myself, I can tell you that I had my child’s pediatricians number programmed on my phone, written on a sticky note on their changing table, posted to the refrigerator and programmed on my home phone. You will want to partner with them throughout your child’s growth and get detailed answers to any questions that make you lose sleep at night. Use this list as a way to put yourself at ease and better understand what your baby is currently going through, but don’t use this list as a doctor or medical advice. Use it as a way to learn a bit more and have more insightful questions for your pediatrician when you speak with them.