Layering Guide + Packing List

The right clothing will make all the difference. We cannot stress this enough.

THE RIGHT CLOTHES + A GOOD ATTITUDE MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE

For weather above 50 degrees

Quick drying, sweat-wicking shirts and shorts! Don’t forget that layering can still be extremely helpful, and there always might be a chance of rain. We prefer a closed-toed shoe, but always something quick drying and able to get dirty! Shoe examples: Keens, Crocs, or quick-dry tennis shoes. Rain boots are still a great option. Always pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses! In warmer weather, we often have water activities. Please always pack a full change of seasonal clothes, including underwear and socks.

For weather below 50 degrees

Layers, layers, layers! Please take a look at the layering guide to the right. Remember to bring a beanie, warm socks, and waterproof gloves. We highly recommend an insulated rainboot for low temperatures. Bogs are a great investment for an insulated rain boot that should last your child the full year.

Because we live in Washington

You know there’s always a chance of rain. We will have rain suits for your child to use while they’re at school. However, we recommend packing some rain gear daily. Note: waterproof and water-resistant are two different things. If you’re curious about your child’s waterproof gear, run it under a light faucet and see if the water soaks into the fabric or puddles up and bounces off.

We recommended adding all of these items your closet. Here are some linked examples: full rain set, one-piece rain set, or this one, and rain boots (Bogs are great!) If you bring your child in soft fabric shoes or Ugg boots on a rainy day, we might ask you to bring them back home and get them another pair of shoes.

Places to start shopping

Goodwill and Value Village are always a great place to start! Buying clothes second-hand means less worry about how dirty they get. PopUp Kids in Tacoma has amazing consignment options just for kids! Here are a few other options for building a stash: Outdoor School Shop (they also have a pre-loved section, Oaki, H&M, REI, Zara, Amazon.

Daily packing list

A backpack with your child’s name on it, sunscreen and bug spray (please apply the first round with your child before you arrive,) and a full water bottle with their name on it. If going for a full day, pack a lunch and a snack. If a half day, just a snack. Always pack a FULL change of seasonal clothing, including socks and underwear, a blanket for nap time (if full time).

The 1, 2, 3 of layering!

Clothing makes all the difference in your child having an enjoyable experience. Layering is vital in the fall/winter and even into spring, as the weather can change so quickly, and your child will be active throughout the day, changing body temperature quickly.

Base Layer

This layer is closest to the skin and should be the thinnest layer. We recommend buying one or two pairs of base layers like long johns or thermals. Think fabric like merino wool, wool, or high-tech poly. Cotton is one of the worst base layers as it traps in moisture. Don’t forget about your feet when thinking about base layering. Bombas are a great sock!

Here’s a link for some base and mid-layer examples.

Mid Layer

Think of this as the cozy layer! A fleece jacket, wool sweater, light puffer, or vest is a great mid-layer.

Outer Layer

The outer layer keeps you warm and keeps the rain/snow out! For rainy days, please see the rain examples to the left. When the temperature drops and snow is in the forecast, your child will need a well-insulated snow coat and snow pants. A full snow set can be very nice, but if it’s hard to take off quickly when your child needs to use the bathroom, please buy a separate jacket and pants. Here are some outer layer examples. You don’t need as many sets of outer layers as you do base and mid-layers. Focus on quality outer layers!

A few extra tips

  • Avoid cotton whenever possible! It does not dry easily.

  • Teach your child to regulate their temperature by taking off/adding a layer and expressing to an adult when they’re hot/cold/wet/etc.

  • In cold weather, bring multiple pairs of mittens

  • Write your child’s name on everything.

  • Our friends at the Outdoor School Shop have some amazing resources! If you still need a little help, check out this gear checklist page.

  • The Grove teachers/admin will be happy to help you if you have questions/need advice.

  • Short and sweet: AVOID COTTON, when in doubt… always waterproof, bring extra clothes, and layer!