Overview

Cotton absorbs moisture. Once it’s wet, it stays wet. This makes kids cold. In fall and winter, avoid cotton sweatpants, hoodies, and socks. Synthetic or wool layers will keep children warm and dry

A name written in permanent marker or custom labels both work well. Labeling gear ensures that items get sent home with the right child.

One full forest school outfit is enough. Your child can wear the same gear every day. No need to buy multiples–unless you want to!

Closest to the skin, this layer keeps heat in
and pulls moisture away.

• Synthetic or wool base set (top + bottom) or long underwear
• Wool socks

This cozy layer traps in heat and
adds warmth.

• Fleece pants
• Fleece pullover or zip-up jacket

This puffy layer keeps kids warm when the
weather is cold.

• Snow bib + a puffy coat (down or
  synthetic) or a one-piece snow suit

These accessories can make or break
child comfort.

Head & Neck:

• Balaclava or fleece/wool hat + fleece neckwarmer (safer and warmer than scarves)

Feet:

• Insulated & waterproof winter boots
• Optional: Toe warmers

Hands:

• Fleece, wool, or synthetic gloves (thin gloves allow dexterity)
• Waterproof mittens with large cuffs that fit over the jacket (avoid brands with tiny cuffs or zipper openings— they are nearly impossible for children to put on independently)
• Optional: hand warmers

Dress your child in a thin glove layer under big waterproof mittens so that their hands stay covered when they take the mittens off to eat/draw. If using hand warmers, keep them inside the big mittens not against bare skin.