Monday, December 9, 2013

The Snow & Cold are Here!

Burrrrrr!  The snow and cold are here, so here are some things you need to know and some helpful tips for preparing your child for school in this weather.

1.  First, get a re-usable and sturdy bag.  This will help your child store and carry the extra winter gear that he or she will need for outdoor recess.  Your child can also easily hang this on the hook or store it below the coat rack on the floor.
2.  Your child should have:  a hat, gloves or mittens, boots, & snow-pants.  Scarfs aren't a bad idea either!
Outdoor recess is generally 20-25 minutes after lunch and this can lead to cold and tearful Kindergarteners when they are not prepared for the weather.
I also usually have a few students that don't want to wear all of their gear.  I will hear, "I don't have a hat," or "I forgot my gloves."  But when I look in backpacks, I often find them.  Please have a conversation at home about the importance of wearing all the gear to stay warm.

I strongly suggest water-proof & warm gloves like these:



These stretchy, cotton ones quickly get wet in the snow & aren't great for keeping hands warm for long periods of time outdoors:


3.  Make sure your child has a pair of tennis shoes or sneakers to wear during the school day.  Boots are pretty clunky in the classroom and can lead to falling.  This is also especially important for P.E.  Your child can change into his/her shoes each morning and put boots on again for recess.


4.  Teach your child how to get dressed in winter gear.  First, snow pants.  Second, boots.  Then, jacket & zip.  Then, hat.  And last, gloves.  This order can be difficult for some students and can take some time when students are not used to doing it for themselves.  "Supervise" this process at home;  don't do it for your child!  He/she needs to learn!


Last, if you are struggling to buy winter weather gear this year, please let me know.  Sometimes there are extra pieces at school or special programs that can support families.

Thank you for your support with this process!

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