Preparing for Back to School Success

Northeast outdoor kids

2 Outerwear Kits Needed

Kit #1: The first kit of outerwear is for the more temperate shoulder seasons of spring and fall. During this time of year, your child will rely on lighter waterproof outer garments such as rain and shell coats and rain and shell pants or one-piece waterproof suits.

Kit #2: As the weather becomes chillier and snow moves in, layers and insulated outer items such as snow coats and pants or full one-piece insulated snowsuits become necessary. During winter, your child will depend on the 1-2-3 layering principle to stay happy, warm, and dry while learning and playing outdoors. Read more here.

Southern + South Central outdoor kids

1 Outerwear Kit Needed

This kit will consist of either waterproof separates (rain or shell jacket and rain or shell pants) or a waterproof one-piece suit in either rain or shell material. The decision of whether to choose separates or a one-piece option will depend on your child and the recommendations/requirements of the school. Weather get chilly sometimes, but no snow? Rely on smart base layers and mid layers too (if your child runs cold). Read more about layering techniques here.

Pacific Northwest outdoor kids

1 Outerwear Kit Needed

Weather in the Pacific Northwest should allow children to rely on one kit of outerwear for outdoor school, but you may find that you will need two pairs of rain pants or two full complete kits of rain gear if your gear is not drying out over night before returning to school. Options: the primary set of rain gear could be a higher quality (and price point) and the secondary set a more affordable option perhaps with not the same level of functionality but serviceable as a backup. Get a feel for how things are going at school before you invest in the second set; you may or may not need it! Don't forget waterproof accessories such as waterproof rain mittens and hats. Also, the weather in the PNW will get chilly and feels more so due to the dampness, so you will need to rely on smart base layers and mid layers. Mid layer jackets can function as your child's outer jacket on non-rainy days. Read more about layering techniques here.

Midwest outdoor kids

2 Outerwear Kits Needed

Kit #1: The first kit of outerwear is for the more temperate shoulder seasons of spring and fall. During this time of year, your child will rely on lighter waterproof outer garments such as rain and shell coats and rain and shell pants or one-piece waterproof suits.

Kit #2: As the weather becomes chillier and snow moves in, layers and insulated outer items such as snow coats and pants or full one-piece insulated snowsuits become necessary. During winter, your child will depend on the 1-2-3 layering principle to stay happy, warm, and dry while learning and playing outdoors. Read more here.

California outdoor kids

1+ Outerwear Kits Needed

All children in California will require a kit of waterproof gear, separates or a suit. We do recommend the versatility of separates (rain pants or rain bib and jacket) for Southern California where children may overheat in a one-piece suit option. Live in the northern part of the state? Don't forget layers! Your child will rely on smart base layers and mid layers when weather gets chillier. Mid layer jackets can function as your child's outer jacket on non-rainy days. Read more about layering techniques here. Remember – all CA kids will need wool socks!