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Should Parents Stop the Scarf Battle?
Healthlifestyle

Should Parents Stop the Scarf Battle?

January 9, 2026•3 min read•450 words
Should Parents Stop the Scarf Battle?
Should Parents Stop the Scarf Battle?
  • The daily struggle between parents and children regarding winter clothing is being reevaluated.
  • Parents frequently insist that children bundle up to prevent illness, specifically to avoid catching a cold.
  • However, new insights suggest that the number of layers worn may not actually influence the risk of infection.
  • For the newsletter "Darons daronnes," journalist Clara Georges consulted a panel of experts to settle this common household dispute.
The Traditional Parenting MandateExpert Opinion on Layers and HealthResolving the Daily Conflict

Quick Summary#

Parents frequently engage in a daily struggle to get their children to wear scarves and heavy coats, believing it prevents illness. The common refrain "Cover up!" is meant to protect children from the cold. However, the effectiveness of this strategy is being questioned.

It is suggested that the number of layers worn might not actually change the risk of catching a cold. To address this common parenting dilemma, Clara Georges consulted a panel of experts. The goal was to arbitrate this daily conflict. The findings indicate that the traditional approach to bundling up may need to be reconsidered.

The Traditional Parenting Mandate#

For generations, the command to "Cover up!" has been a staple of parental advice. The fear is simple: exposure to cold weather leads to illness. Parents worry that without enough layers, their child will inevitably catch a cold or the flu. This creates a daily friction point in many households, often referred to as the "scarf battle."

The anxiety driving this behavior is rooted in a desire to protect. However, the medical reality might not align with this instinct. The core question is whether the physical act of wearing a scarf actually prevents viral transmission or simply provides a false sense of security.

Couvre-toi !
— Parents

Expert Opinion on Layers and Health#

The investigation into this matter involved consulting a panel of specialists. The consensus among these experts challenges the long-held belief that more layers equate to better health. The number of épaisseurs (thicknesses) a child wears appears to have little to no bearing on their susceptibility to viruses.

While staying warm is comfortable, it does not necessarily create a barrier against germs. The focus should perhaps shift from the number of jackets to other hygiene factors. The experts suggest that the battle over the scarf might be fought for no reason.

Resolving the Daily Conflict#

The findings presented by Clara Georges offer a potential truce in the war of the wardrobe. If the risk of catching a cold is not significantly reduced by an extra scarf, parents can ease up on the insistence. This could lead to more harmonious mornings and less resistance from children.

Ultimately, the goal is the child's well-being. Understanding that the scarf battle may be unnecessary allows parents to focus on more effective preventative measures. The daily friction can be replaced with a more relaxed approach to winter dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does wearing more layers prevent colds?

Experts suggest that the number of layers worn may not actually change the risk of catching a cold.

Who investigated the scarf battle?

Journalist Clara Georges consulted a panel of experts for the newsletter "Darons daronnes".

Original Source

Le Monde

Originally published

January 9, 2026 at 03:41 PM

This article has been processed by AI for improved clarity, translation, and readability. We always link to and credit the original source.

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