PARENTS

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS: THE DO'S AND DON'TS WHEN IT COMES TO DRESSING YOUR CHILD FOR DAYCARE/PRESCHOOL


DRESSED FOR SUCCESS: THE DO'S AND DON'TS WHEN IT COMES TO DRESSING YOUR CHILD FOR DAYCARE/PRESCHOOL

DO's:

Do label your child’s clothing:

Chances are your child isn’t the only one with a blue jacket and black mittens.  Labeling your child’s clothing decreases the chance another child will walk off with his or her clothing.  If someone does accidentally take something that belongs to your child, it is more likely it will be returned if it is labeled.  Don’t stop at labeling outerwear.  Label anything your child might take off during the day such as a sweater or sweatshirt.

Do dress your child in clothing that is weather appropriate:

This suggestion may seem obvious, but is amazing how many parents fail to dress their children appropriately for the weather.  Most programs do take the children outside every day unless there are severe weather conditions that prevent outdoor play.  Therefore, don’t assume your child won’t be playing outside and fail to bring them the right clothing.

Do dress your child in comfortable clothing:

Dressing your child in clothing that fits and is comfortable will help him to get the most out of his day.  If your child constantly has to pull up his pants to keep them on, he isn’t going to be able to give his full attention to what is going on around him.  Also, your child will have an easier time falling asleep at nap time if he is comfortable in what he’s wearing.

Do leave an extra set of clothing for your child:

Most child care programs (especially full-day programs) ask parents to leave an extra set of clothing.  Leaky diapers, messy meals or art projects, or a wet slide on the playground are all reasons your child may need his or her clothes changed during the day.  When an accident does occur, having an extra set of your child’s clothing on hand is convenient for the child care workers and reassuring to your child.

Do take note of special days/events:

Often, special days are planned throughout the year where the children may be asked to dress a certain way.  For example, there may be a Halloween party or everyone may dress in green on St. Patrick's Day.  Don't cause your child to feel left out by ignoring or forgetting about these days. 

Dont's:

Don’t dress your child in nice/expensive clothing:

Your child is going to get messy at daycare.  Don’t dress them in clothing you don’t want ruined or stained.  If you have an event or sport your child will be attending after daycare, leave the outfit for the special activity with your child’s teachers and ask them to dress your child shortly before your arrival at the end of the day.

Don’t dress your child in clothing that is difficult to get on and off:

Younger children need their diapers changed frequently and older children are potty training or may need to get to the bathroom in a hurry.  For infants, you should avoid clothing that doesn't have snaps which can make changing their diapers more difficult.   For older children, avoid belts or difficult buttons that can make potty training and using the bathroom more difficult.

Don’t allow your child to wear backless sandals or shoes:

Shoes and sandals without backs increase the likeliness your child may get hurt.  This type of footwear is harder to keep on, especially when playing outside.  Also, it is easier for a small rock or pebble to get in your child’s sandal.

Don’t allow your child to wear jewelry:  

Jewelry is easily lost or stolen, leave it at home.

Don’t allow your child to wear clothing that could pose a safety risk:

There are certain types of clothing that may pose a safety risk to your child or another child at the daycare.  Don’t allow your child to wear clothing with hanging strings or cords.  Also, avoid dressing your child in clothing with small beads or pieces which could fall off and cause a choking hazard to younger children.