Question: I have a little girl, 4, who will not keep her hat and mittens on or her jacket zipped even when it is freezing outside. Her nails and lips get blue and I can see she is not comfortable, but she won't stay bundled up. What can I do?

Answer: This is a common issue for young children. Sometimes they're exerting independence and testing limits. Sometimes they're seeing older sibs or parents who don't "have to" wear hats and mittens. And sometimes they just don't like bulky clothing or multiple layers, which can actually be too warm, and sometimes irritating to young skin.

Here are some strategies that we find workable.

First, check the fabrics and yarns to make sure they're truly not itchy or irritating.

Next time you buy outerwear for your daughter, involve her in the purchase. If she has a say in the choice of clothing, she'll be more inclined to wear it.

Make sure that you and others in the family model the behaviors you want to see in your little girl. Everyone should wear appropriate cold-weather clothing, including on their heads and hands.

Set a strict "house rule": when it's cold outside, young children do not leave the house without hats, mittens or gloves, and zipped jackets. You may have some initial battles, but don't give in -- even if it means that your little girl can't play outside with friends or family, or join you in a trip to the store or the library. Explain to her that, once she agrees to dress appropriately, she can once again have fun outdoors.

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