In the fall and spring months of the year, most adults know that dressing in light layers that can be added or removed depending on the temperature is the way to go. Unfortunately for school children, this may not be an option.
First of all, many middle schools and high schools have made a point to tell students that they are not allowed to coats or hooded jackets to class. In the interest of the safety of the children in the school, the administration has become very picky about what teens and young teens can wear in school.
For younger children, the problem is a bit different. Teachers are unable to keep track of several layers of clothes on any child. Most elementary school teachers will stick to a “keep it on or keep it off” policy. Children who think they will be warm enough in short sleeves early in the day, may find out that they are chilly and have to wait awhile to get to their clothes.
Going out to recess with several layers on may mean children are straggling behind their friends and missing part of recess. In addition to that, children who seem to be slow are more likely to be in trouble when recess is over, even if they are just trying to figure out which layers to leave on and take off. While a cotton shirt, sweatshirt, and a jacket or coat may not seem like enough layers to cause a problem, it really can be confusing for children. This is especially true when the outer pieces have an assortment of buttons and zippers to deal with.
Parents need to know their child’s classroom. They need to know if it runs hot or cold or has a window that is often open. They need to check the weather and know what will be appropriate for school that day. Once the children understand how important it is to be comfortable all day, they will begin to make good choices themselves.