Fall officially started this past weekend, and fall weather came right along with it. Even when the weather is cooler, breezy, and/or wet we aim to get outside. During our midday recess children can be outside for over an hour, and the All Day Children’s House children could have an additional two hours outside in the afternoons. All students having outside clothing appropriate for the weather is key to making the time outside enjoyable.

As you dig out jackets, hats and mittens from storage or add new ones to your carts, a few things we have found from overseeing 20+ children getting ready day in and out in the cubby ways:

• Label ALL of your child’s gear! Inevitably, another child will have the same blue mittens or black boots as yours. 
• Know that gear will get wet and dirty. Send you children in the washable, durable gear. Keep the fancy or special items for non school days.
• Neoprene, BOG style boots, work great in wet, snow, cold, and muddy weather. They are also very easy to get on and off independently for children.

A fleece hooded jacket is a great catch-all outerwear item for the days the weather is questionable. Fleece is semi water resistant and can be layered with easily for more or less warmth. 

Help your child work towards independently getting gear on and off. Try to build in extra time so they can get gear on themselves. Make sure the gear closures, zippers, snaps, buckles, are functional and accessible to them. 

Thank you for your partnership in making outdoor time enjoyable for all!

Paige