Dressing up kids throughout the year requires a lot of thought and patience. Explaining to your little one that you can’t wear fleece pants and a cardigan on a particular day because it 45c outside will 70% humidity is no easy feat. It often requires a special skill set in persuasion and convincing. I find it easiest to pack away clothes for different seasons so that they are out of sight and out of mind. And so that I don’t end up with a crazy hybrid half princess-half thing outfit. Yes, it can happen.
TIP 1: Only keep weather-appropriate clothes in your children’s closet
For the monsoon season, I have a nice variety of cotton outfits. In the humidity, I find that cotton work best. Children have extra sensitive skin, especially small kids and babies. For these age groups, parents need to be extra vigilant to avoid rashes that can be caused by synthetic fabrics and bad fits. Easily washable and durable clothes are important aspects to keep in mind when choosing new additions to your child’s wardrobe. Fast drying clothes are also essential, especially during the monsoon when clothes take forever to dry.
TIP 2: Pick bright and cheerful pieces of clothing
With school back in session, kids are mostly in their uniforms. Infuse some fun and excitement by choosing bright and cheerful pieces for their non school wardrobe. Fun and funky prints, checks, stripes and patterns are wonderful additions, and are something for them to look forward to changing into after half a day spent in a drab school uniform.
TIP 3: Quantity is key
Kids will be kids and that often means that ‘jumping in muddy puddles’ is a fun activity! Quantity is key here, especially when taking into account their busy days packed with after-school activities. Make sure you have enough clean outfits to last the entire day.
TIP 4: Pick the right footwear
Something that is sturdy, durable and allows the child’s feet to breathe. Cost is also a factor as shoes are outgrown very fast. While I recognise the convenience of easy to clean Crocs, a well-fitted pair of sandals or slip-ons is a worthwhile investment. Make sure your child is comfortable in his or her shoes and can run around and be active. I would avoid flip flops for playtime, as they don’t provide enough support and can cause your child to trip and fall.
TIP 5: Activewear is a good option for kids who play sports
Sports materials are built to keep the wearer cool and dry. The big sports brands all have a range of kids clothes that might be a worthwhile investment and help keep concentration on the game, rather than be distracted by sweat-soaked t-shirts.
A year-round essential is sunscreen. These harmful rays are present even when overcast, cloudy or rainy so sunscreen is a must in all weather. For sporting activities, be sure to reapply liberally! There you have it folks; five simple tips to get through these rainy days!