LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk 16 Second tip: Be prepared for the elements. Over time I have succumbed to my husband's obses- sion with researching gear. Truly, not all winter gear is created equal, and some of it can be pricey. But with a little waterproofing spray and the right layer- ing, you can stay dry and warm. When it comes to the kids, start with a tight base layer, a loose warm middle layer, and waterproof outerwear and boots. If no one told you this before, let me be the one to tell you now: never assume kids' coats, snow pants, and snow boots are waterproof. In fact, unless the tag says so, I can assure you it is NOT waterproof. But a little Kiwi or Nikwax spray can go a long way. Treat everyone's gear before heading out this sea- son. Same rule goes for mittens. Do not even get me started on mittens. I feel like I could do a TED Talk on winter mitten strategies and how not to lose them. To spare you, I will say this. Buy a bulk pack of mitten clips (on Amazon or wherever); then buy a multi-pack of half-decent mittens. Waterproof spray the mittens. Next, clip the mittens onto every coat and piece of outerwear your kids have. THEN place a backup pair into their main snow/ski jacket pockets. I want you to thank me later this winter when you are out on an adventure and a mitten suddenly has snow inside it or is soaked through and you effortlessly (in a true Bear Grylls fashion) whip out a new, warm pair of mittens and promptly clip them to the clips, shoving the wet ones into your pocket to dry later. Congrats. You just bought yourself another 30 minutes. Last readiness tip: Get a good thermos, some small metal camping mugs, and a waterproof blanket. These will become your hot cocoa resources and undoubted- ly your anti-meltdown companions. While I encourage an unfettered winter excursion, our area offers so many family-friendly opportuni- ties, that an extra bit of preparation always pays off. Check out Frozen Fire and Lights in Inlet, Saturday, Feb. 25. My kids love the kit-flying, the cardboard sled race, and the fireworks. Saranac Lake has a fun Winter Carnival and Ice Palace the first weekend in February each year that we enjoy, too. No matter how you are getting outside, I hope this helps you find your own ADK outdoor adventures as a family. Remember, the mission is always to build the children's "winter confi- dence" through repeated positive experiences. Over time, their readiness, abilities, and love for all seasons will grow. And what more can we ask for than a world full of kiddos who love to get outside without even noticing the weather. Meanwhile, on December 31st, my children will be digging for stones, and I will be holding a cup of cocoa, toasting you all from a lake- side campsite somewhere in our ADK forest. Cheers, Britta. *For more Adirondack family adventures and tips, follow Britta on Instagram adk_momma.

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