Outdoor Gear Guide
Layering 101: Ensuring your child is prepared to weather all kinds of weather!
Whether or not you are new to daily play outside in all kinds of weather, it is important to be prepared for how to dress for outside and stay healthy and have fun! Children at this age are still developing their internal thermometer, which means awareness of how warm or how cool they feel is often limited. By dressing appropriately, their small bodies need not divert extra energy towards regulating their internal temperature, thus allowing them to grow and play with vigor. With our strong focus on outdoor learning, we hope this helps inform how to layer gear at specific temperatures. May this resource be a guide to keeping your child warm and dry through all seasons!
BASE LAYERS
Base Layer:
Long johns/underwear made of wool or wool/silk blend are ideal. As this layer is next to your child’s skin, it must be breathable and not trap moisture (like cotton can do). Quality wool is an investment but it doesn’t soil or retain odors so the same pair can be worn for a week!
Mid Layer:
This is everyday clothing- pants, dress with leggings, long/short sleeved shirt, socks, etc. Choose pants that are not too tight to allow room for base layers and encourage child’s independence in dressing.
Extra Layer:
Keep those base & mid layers clean with a light coat or warm vest. Must be able to fit under a coat so merino or boiled wool is best as it adds warmth without the bulk! Fleece is an option, though it is not as breathable and can overheat children, causing them to sweat which, in many circumstances, can leave them feeling chilled.
Outer Layer (Rain/Wet):
Waterproof boots that fit well, rain pants/suit, rain coat with a hood, thicker wool mittens in damp conditions (which are still warm even when damp), waterproof mittens in wet conditions and a hat that fits under a coat hood- Balaclava style hats are wonderful!
Outer Layer (Snow/Cold):
Waterproof, insulated snow boots that fit well with room for thick socks. Waterproof, insulated Snow suit or bibs with elastic cuff or bootstrap to prevent snow from getting into boots. Waterproof insulated mittens, warm hat/balaclava, scarf and a waterproof insulated coat with a hood.