A Survival Guide for Winter Sports Games

Here we go again. The kids’ winter sports season is upon us, and you know what that means. It’s time for frigid mornings, icy bleachers, and the eternal quest for a decent cup of hot chocolate. How do you survive the season of winter sports games without turning into a human popsicle? This guide will give you the pro tips you need to stay warm, comfy, and happy out there!

Dress for Success

Sideline style is a thing, but when the wind is whipping and the temperature drops, function has to beat fashion. Think layers, layers, and more layers. A thermal base layer, a cozy fleece, and a waterproof outer shell are your best friends.

Additionally, don’t forget the accessories! A warm hat, thick gloves, waterproof boots, and some seriously fuzzy socks are great choices. Basically, you want to look like you’re about to scale Mount Everest, but make it chic. This is the pinnacle of cold-weather soccer mom fashion, after all.

Gear Up With the Right Equipment

You’ve got your outfit sorted, but what about your survival kit? A folding chair with a back is a must unless you enjoy the unique sensation of your backside freezing to a metal bleacher. You should also bring a thermos of something hot, like coffee, tea, soup, or even just hot water. On a related note, a warm blanket is essential. You could even learn to use a pre-cut quilt kit to make a personalized one for the season.

Here are some other helpful things to bring that are on my personal go-to list:

• a portable phone charger because that cold will drain your battery fast
• hand and foot warmers to stuff in your pockets and boots
• sunglasses since snow glare is surprisingly bright
• plenty of snacks for you and any other freezing family members (more on this in a bit)

Don’t Forget the SPF

It might sound crazy, but you can still get a sunburn in the winter, especially with snow on the ground reflecting the sun’s rays. Pack a small bottle of sunscreen and some SPF lip balm. Your skin will thank you later!

Pack the Perfect Snacks

You’re going to need fuel to stay warm. Cold weather can make your body burn more calories, so this is your official permission to indulge.

Forget the sad little bag of baby carrots. Think hearty, warm, and comforting—a thermos of chili or mac and cheese, for instance.

Stay Positive and Have Fun

Okay, so you’re cold, you’re tired, and you’d rather be on a tropical beach. I get it. But try to remember why you’re there. You get to watch your kid do something they love.

So cheer loudly, high-five other parents, and soak in the moments of victory (and even the epic fails). Before you know it, the season will be over, and you might actually miss these crazy, cold game days. Or, you’ll just be really, really glad it’s time for spring sports. Either way, you survived a whole season of winter sports games—way to go!