A mum's winter survival guide

Snug as a bug

It may create a laundry mountain of Alpine proportions, but when it comes to dressing the kids for winter, lots of light layers are the way to go. That way, body heat is trapped more effectively - plus layers can be shed as needed.

It's a myth that most of our body heat is lost through the head: researchers at Indiana University pointed out that, if that were the case, venturing out hatless would be like going out without trousers.

However, a cosy hat certainly feels snug, so keep them - along with scarves and gloves - in a basket by the front door so they're ready to grab as the kids head out.

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• Keeping them happy and healthy

Goggle-eyed child

Does the sullen, goggle-eyed adolescent sound familiar? Spending too much time online or huddled over a screen can affect the quality of his relationships with family and friends, according to researchers in New Zealand.

'Luke was obsessed with his Xbox last winter,' says mum Brigid, 41, of her 12-year-old. 'We discussed the negative effects of it - like the way he's often cranky after a long session, and doesn't have the time for other things he enjoys, like playing his guitar. Together, we drew up an agreement - such as no Xbox on nights when he has other activities, and no more than an hour at a time.'

Often, kids are more likely to abide by new 'rules' if they've been involved in establishing them.

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• Keeping them happy and healthy

Let it snow!

As long as it's not pouring down or blizzard-like conditions, there's no reason why children shouldn't enjoy all the benefits of outdoor play in winter.

As well as boosting their fitness, imagination and social skills, a blast of bracing air is good for you, too - there's nothing like dark, winter days to make you feel as if the walls are closing in.

If you've all had your fill of sledging, get the children to photograph frost-sparkling cobwebs, make bird-feeder fat balls or have a winter picnic - with hot soup in flasks plus a blanket, of course.

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• Keeping them happy and healthy

Save their skin

We often forget that sunscreen is needed on those bright, cloudless winter days, as snow can reflect around 70 per cent of the sun's harmful rays.

Winter's low humidity and sudden temperature changes can worsen certain skin conditions such as eczema, too, so see your GP if your child's usual emollient seems less effective. Turning up the central heating can also be drying, and sitting too close to a fire or heater can trigger itchiness.

As for children's chapped, flaky lips, you can't go wrong with a tiny tin of Vaseline stashed in your bag.

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• Keeping them happy and healthy

The great indoors

The Department of Health reckons that children should be physically active for at least an hour a day - yet during these short days, it's easier said than done.

Look into indoor activities such as gymnastics, karate or five-a-side football, and check if your local authority offers free swimming sessions for kids. Try lead by example, too - studies show that active parents tend to have active kids.

Yes, it can be gruelling, hauling yourself out for a cycle or a game of footie with the kids on a chilly day. But bear in mind that exercising releases adrenalin, endorphins and serotonin - powerful chemicals which can significantly boost your midwinter mood.

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• Keeping them happy and healthy

Liquid assets

Having hot drinks on hand means that children can refuel and warm up before rushing out to play again. While hot chocolate can be viewed as a slightly naughty treat (all that sugar and fat, especially if cream and marshmallows are added), it's also a great source of protein, calcium and antioxidants too.

And heck, let's face it - it's delicious. Domestic guru Martha Stewart recommends making up a big batch of hot choc to see you through winter: combine 3 1/2 cups of sugar, 2 1/4 cups of cocoa and a tablespoon of salt, making up with whole milk whenever a comforting cupful is required.  

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• Keeping them happy and healthy

Tucked in with tissues

Minor childhood ailments can be stressful when you're madly juggling work and childcare.

However, teachers and nursery staff would prefer you to keep your sick child at home, and NHS guidelines suggest that, if a child's cold is accompanied by a raised temperature, shivers or drowsiness, they should see a GP and return to the classroom 24 hours after they've started to feel better.

Kids generally make a speedier recovery when they're tucked up at home, enjoying plenty of rest and fluids, without their classmates sneezing in their faces every five minutes.

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•  Keeping them happy and healthy

'He started it!'

Of course, there are times when you can't chivvy the kids outdoors or whisk them off to the pool. Most of us spend far more time at home in winter - and being in close proximity to each other can trigger sibling squabbles.

'Marcus and Josie's fights have reduced me to tears many times,' admits iVillager Heather of her seven and nine-year-olds.

'What works for me? Ignoring them if I possibly can, and stopping them in their tracks by presenting an instant diversion, like showing them something in the garden.'

Taking yourself off to another room, and breathing slowly and deeply, can help to calm your frazzled nerves. As can visualising a particularly delicious cocktail... 

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•  Keeping them happy and healthy

Your great escape

So... what about you? You've kept everyone entertained all winter, catered for countless children and, understandably, might be feeling the strain.

'After all the sleepovers and cinema trips, I need something to look forward to,' admits Eilidh, mum to girls of four, six and nine. 'It might just be a mini-facial in a department store or an afternoon's shopping with a friend. Whatever it is, the thought of it shimmering in the distance keeps me going when I'm slicing up the sixth pizza for a playdate, or persuading a bunch of excited girls to go to sleep at 1.30 am.'

So book your treat now - and, if winter still gives you cold feet, remind yourself that spring's just around the corner...

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•  Keeping them happy and healthy