Dressing for the Weather
Every day the children spend a great deal of time outside taking walks and playing in the yard. If children are dressed properly they will fully enjoy the elements. Children delight in the changing seasons; rain, with its puddles and mud brings opportunities for special sensory and play experiences. Rain pants, jackets and boots are essential for school. Snow, sleet and ice are also good ingredients for outdoor play. Children need snow suits, warm mittens and hats which fit snugly around the ears and neck. Pliable waterproof gloves keep hands warm and dry and allow for movement and creativity. Wearing the proper clothes suited to the weather enables the child to fully enjoy the outdoors. Warmth is critical for health and growth. It is our conviction that when a child is kept warm enough, more energy goes toward growing and maintaining good health (as opposed to maintaining warmth). Toddlers and kindergarten-age children need the support of all caregivers (teachers and parents alike) to dress them warmly, since until the age of nine, children do not usually notice whether they are hot or cold. Layer their clothing to create warmth, using wool or silk or other natural fibers. Hats are a must in chilly weather as so much body heat is lost through the top of the head. Maintaining warmth is a central concern when dressing our children for outdoor play. On sunny hot days, children are encouraged to put on sun hats and to wear sunscreen.
FALL/WINTER CHECK LIST
Please keep at least two full changes of clothes at school, appropriate for the current weather with no media or writing on them. Have every item labeled with your child’s name or initials, in addition to the following:
Indoor slippers (our floors can be chilly)
One sweater with hood or pullover
One pair of long johns (cotton, silk, or wool are ideal)
One warm hat that covers the ears and neck, or a balaclava
Water proof pants, jacket, and snow overalls
2 Pairs of gloves/ cotton and waterproof
Rain boots
2 pairs of warm socks
Clothes should fit comfortably to play in and not represent a hazard or prevent child from moving freely. Also, it is best if they are from natural sources, i.e. cotton, silk, or wool. Shoes should have a good grip with no heels. (“Crocs” are not good for running). Shoelaces and buckled shoes are encouraged. Many thanks!
SPRING/SUMMER CHECK LIST
Please be sure to label each item with your child’s name or initials before sending to school.
One sun hat
One pair of long pants
One pair of shorts
Two long sleeve shirts
Two short sleeve shirts
Two pairs of underwear
Two pairs of socks
Sweatshirt with a hood or pullover
Sandals with covered toes only (not “crocs” or flip-flops) or a pair of sneakers/canvas shoes with shoelaces.
Note: These items must stay at school. If your child has the need to change, please remove soiled clothing and replace the next school day. Clothes to wear at school must be play clothes and free of media pictures or signs. Thank you!