Fall is a great time for outdoor play, but it can also be a challenge to dress your child properly when the weather is so unpredictable. Keeping your child dry, warm and comfortable is key to ensuring they (and you!) can enjoy outdoor play both at daycare and at home. Here are some tips on how to dress your child for the changing weather of fall!
1. Layers – the basis for the right clothing for young children
The best strategy for fall clothing is layering. This allows you to adjust your clothing depending on the temperature and weather, while still allowing your child to move freely. Here is a simple guide to how you can think about fall clothing:
– Base layer (layer 1): Bodystocking or sweater and pants; if it’s colder autumn days, it’s recommended to use wool or other warmer material as a base layer, otherwise your regular clothes will work great! Regular socks or warmer varieties, depending on whether it’s cold or “just” rainy outside.
– Mid layer (layer 2): The mid layer should insulate and retain heat. A good alternative is a fleece jacket or a wool sweater. This layer traps body heat and helps keep the child warm!
– Outer layer (layer 3): The outer layer should protect against wind and rain. A waterproof and windproof shell jacket and pants are perfect for autumn weather. Make sure that the outerwear has good breathability so that the moisture inside can escape! Most brands today maintain a high standard and produce good quality outerwear.
2. Clothes for rainy days
Rainy autumn days call for waterproof clothing so your child can stay dry and play freely. Here are some items of clothing to consider:
– Rainwear: Make sure your child has a waterproof rain suit, with both jacket and pants. Preferably with welded seams for extra waterproofness! A good quality rain suit is a must when it’s pouring or when your child has to play in wet environments like puddles.
– Rubber boots: Rubber boots are essential on rainy days. They keep your feet dry, but remember to add wool socks to keep you warm. If it’s colder, choose boots with lining or wear thick socks.
3. Clothes for windy and cold days
The autumn wind can feel bitterly cold, especially in the open courtyards of kindergartens or in the park. For windy and cold days, it is important to have clothing that provides extra protection:
– Windproof clothing: Windproof shell jackets or clothing that fits snugly around the wrists and waist will help keep the cold out. Look for adjustable cuffs and waists for the best fit.
– Hat and gloves: Children lose a lot of heat through their heads, so a windproof hat is good for colder days. Choose a hat that also covers the ears! – Thin wool gloves or lined waterproof gloves are perfect for little hands that get cold quickly.
4. Clothes for milder autumn days
When the fall is milder, perhaps at the beginning of the season, your child won’t need as much insulation. But it’s still important to think about layering and having the right material for comfort:
– Thinner jackets: A thinner fleece or softshell jacket is usually good if it’s drier and warmer outside. It’s flexible and allows for play, while still providing some warmth and protection from the wind.
– Shell outerwear: If the weather is wet but not cold, shell outerwear works well to keep your child dry without getting too hot.
5. Tips for a successful day outdoors
– Extra clothes: Always have an extra change of clothes in kindergarten, especially socks and gloves. Children play intensely and can get both sweaty and wet!
– Reflectors: When darkness creeps in in the fall, reflectors are important to make the child visible during walks to and from kindergarten.
With that said – have fun on all your autumn adventures!
