“There is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing” – Alfred Wainwright
How to dress for Forest School
Our site is quite sheltered and drains well, but it’s still really important to make sure your child is properly dressed for the conditions. A properly prepared child will thrive whatever the weather!
When dressing, think layers! This gives some flexibility as the weather changes.
Generally a split top and trousers for waterproofs are a bit more more convenient than an all-in-one, but don’t be afraid of the latter if it works for you!
Synthetics are generally better than cotton for base-layers.
In cold weather, do check your little one’s hands - they are often too absorbed to notice if they are getting cold!
Have a change of clothes available - toddlers can be quite resourceful in finding ways of getting wet or messy!
Warm weather
Trainers (no open-toed shoes)
Long sleeved cotton top
Long lightweight trousers
Sun hat – put sun screen on before you arrive
Water
Mild Weather
Trainers (no open-toed shoes)
Long-sleeved shirt
Jumper / top
(Lightweight, waterproof coat)
Long trousers
(Waterproof over-trousers)
Cold Weather
Wellies & suitable socks
(Light mittens)
(Light thermal base layer top)
Long-sleeved shirt
Jumper / top
Waterproof coat
(Light thermal base layer leggings)
Warm trousers
Waterproof over-trousers
(Snood)
(Hat)
Wintery Weather
Snow boots & suitable socks
Waterproof / Ski mittens
Thermal base layer top
Long-sleeved shirt
Jumper / top
Insulated & waterproof coat
Thermal base layer leggings
Warm trousers
Waterproof over-trousers
Snood
Hat
Suppliers
Forest school originated from Scandinavia; they know how to dress for the weather – we recommend the following retailers. (They are lovely, but quite expensive!)
Other good suppliers are:
Should I wear anything special?
In winter, you might want to wear some light walking boots or even wellies if it has been raining a lot!
I wear waterproof over-trousers so I can get down to the right level. If you have some, you might want to wear them!
