The Best Spring Outdoor Clothing for Kids

Spring is the perfect time to get outside and explore what nature has to offer, from hunting for worms to jumping in puddles! As the weather gets warmer, it’s tempting to forego the layers and opt for cute jackets and sandals, but it’s important to remember that proper clothing lays the best foundation for building a love of learning outdoors in our children.

Outside exploration has been proven to lead to a plethora of benefits that helps your child develop crucial skills. At Oak Learners, our students are outside for extended periods of time in all weather: snow, rain or shine. Regardless of the forecast, we will continue encouraging our students to explore the natural world around them while pushing boundaries and taking risks. 

Most importantly: LABEL EVERYTHING! Labels (such as Mabel’s Labels) will ensure that your investments keep coming home to be used another day.  Here are a few suggestions when shopping for spring outdoor gear to ensure your child stays warm, dry, and loving the new life all around this spring!

**Please note that this blog contains affiliate links to Amazon.ca

RAIN BOOTS

Invest in a good pair of boots! Warm and dry feet are the key to spending more time outside.

These are the key features you want to focus on when purchasing winter boots:

• Waterproof: look for boots that are made entirely of rubber or rubber and neoprene.
• Lightweight: If they make a clunking sound when your child walks they are probably too heavy and will slow your child down on their adventures. 
• Good Grip: All too often, rain boots are made for style over function. Look for rain boots that have a solid sole and good grip for navigating wet surfaces.
• Easy to put on: Extra bonus if they have little handles to help making putting them on and pulling them off a bit easier! Boots should go up to mid-calf level to help feet stay dry.

SHOES

Invest in a good pair of shoes that will provide great support for growing feet and excellent traction on uneven or slippery surfaces. These are the key features you want to focus on when purchasing shoes for spring and summer outdoor play.

• Waterproof: look shoes that will be waterproof or water-resistant to allow for quick dry-outs in between play sessions or hikes.
• Good Grip: All too often, shoes for kids are made for style over function. Look for shoes that have a solid sole and good grip for navigating wet surfaces.
• Easy to put on: Select shoes that have elastic tension closures for easier on/off and to reduce the risk of laces coming untied and making play no longer safe. 

JACKETS

• Layers:  A waterproof and windproof outer layer with additional breathability will be invaluable as the weather changes day by day in the springtime. 
• Ventilation: Many jackets have zippers that can offer ventilation when they are moving around a lot or if the temperature warms up.
• Length: Make sure it is long enough to cover them and not let rain in when they are lifting their arms and playing. We suggest something that reaching to the top of the knees.

Rain Suit / Muddy Buddy

• Waterproof, waterproof, waterproof. 
• Reinforced bum and knee areas. 
• Easy to get on and off!

WINTER ACCESSORIES

• Binoculars or Magnifying Glasses: For birdwatching and up-close inspection of the natural world. 
• Umbrella: Every child loves twirling an umbrella and watching the raindrops puddle and drip in different patterns! 
• Daypack: A lightweight pack is great for carrying extra snacks, or a rain poncho, or for those extra layers that might get removed once active play begins.