As energy costs rise sharply across the UK, over 3 million households cannot afford heating in their homes. It is not just energy costs either; food and fuel costs are at an all-time high too, which puts a lot of strain on people, especially families with young children.

If, like many parents, you are worried about your expenses this Winter, you can use some simple, quick hacks to keep your family warm and avoid using the heating for as long as possible. Here are some cheap ways to keep warm this season.

1. Layer up! 

Layering up is an effective and cheap way to keep warm. Wearing more layers ensures that your body heat stays trapped for longer. So, layer up your children in 3 – 4 warm, breathable layers of clothing to protect them from the cold while also saving money on heating. If you are stepping out of the house, consider wearing a pair of gloves, a scarf, and a hat as well.

Read: Winter Warmers to Keep Your Children Toasty and Warm on Cold Days

Little girl in the snow

2. Eat warm, hearty meals 

The easiest way to warm yourself up during cold days is to eat well. Hence, it’s important to have hot meals during Winter to stay warm and comfortable. Soups, stews, and baked vegetables are quick, simple, and warm food options for you to make at home on a budget.

3. Treat yourself to a hot drink 

We all like to sip on something hot, like coffee or tea, during the Winter because it keeps us warm. It´s true – studies show that a hot drink can increase the body’s temperature by about 2.5 degrees. To keep your children warm, you can give them a hot drink as well, like hot chocolate, vanilla milk, or even a hot lemon water drink. It warms up the fingers as well as their insides!

child drinking hot chocolate to represent keeping your children warm

4. Add rugs and carpets to your house 

Your floors, such as tiles and laminates, might make your home colder than usual. You can fix this by simply placing a few rugs and carpets around your house to add an extra insulation layer. Also, ensure everyone always wears socks and slippers. It´s the easiest way to keep your toes warm!

5. Be active 

Being more concerned than usual about your children’s health during winter is natural. However, don’t make the mistake of keeping them huddled up indoors throughout the day. Encourage them to exercise, play and spend some time outdoors as well. Exercise is a great way to remain warm. When we move about, the body converts the stored energy into heat energy and ensures we remain warm for a long time. Plus, it is a fun, cheap way to keep warm.

Read: Surprising Reasons Why Outdoor Play is Healthy in Winter

Child playing at the park wearing thermals to represent keeping your children warm

If you are really struggling financially this winter, here are a few other things you can do

Millions of families are struggling financially, and it is a matter of concern. The government is aiding millions of households across the UK to make heating more accessible. Be sure to check out the various government schemes and see if you are eligible for any of them:

 

 

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

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