(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- We all love dressing up our little ones for Halloween. However, there are some important things to keep in mind when picking out costumes for infants and toddlers.
Dr. Shelly Vaziri Flais, a pediatrician with the American Academy of Pediatrics and the author of several parenting books including "Raising Twins, Parenting Multiples From Pregnancy Through the School Years", has some tips for parents dressing up their babies for Halloween.
Should parents pick warm costumes as October tends to get cold in Chicago and should babies layer and wear something underneath their costume?
October weather is quite variable in Chicago! My four kids are now young adults, and I can recall many trick-or-treating years on Oct. 31 when it was snowing, or 80 degrees, or 60's with high winds (which really did a number on the kids' costumes!). My best advice to parents is to be prepared for a range of situations. Have a "Plan B" costume in case it's cooler than you expect.
Simple is best, and to keep it budget-friendly. Ask friends and family if they have a costume handy that your family could borrow. When my youngest was an infant, we borrowed a simple one-piece cozy duck costume -- classic and easy, and best of all, free!
Parents should know that newborns through 6 months of age need one more layer than we do to regulate appropriate body temperature. After 6 months your older baby can dress in similar layers to you.
On the other hand, is it possible for babies to get hot in certain costumes? For example, the furry animal costumes can be quite thick.
We have a tendency to over bundle our babies, and then wonder why they are crabby. Make sure your child has the appropriate amount of layers. Have a "Plan B" costume in case it's warmer than expected.
What materials and fabrics should parents avoid when picking out a costume?
Comfortable, breathable cotton, infant-friendly fabrics are best. Avoid choking hazards and strangulation risks. It may seem like a lot of grownups are around on Halloween, but it's a chaotic time, and a moment's distraction can lead to trouble.
In general, kids' costumes should be bright, reflective with well-fitting shoes. Labels should read "flame resistant." Avoid wigs or excess accessories, and any hats should fit properly. Simple is best! Opt for the classics. A simple one-piece with a pumpkin on it is perfect!
For older babies/toddlers that have started walking, should parents opt-in for costumes that have non-slip grip on the feet for safety especially if the costume is a one piece?
Yes, and well-fitting shoes for early walkers. Adults should be aware of tripping hazards such as stairs, steps, porches.
What should parents keep in mind when picking a costume in regards to diaper changes? What type of costumes are easiest for diaper changing?
Simple one-piece outfits are best! For younger babies and toddlers, a "costume" may not even be needed. A simple cotton one-piece with a pumpkin on it is a classic way to celebrate a fun day.
Listen to our new podcast Looped In: Chicago
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram