The other night my almost four-year-old picked out her pajamas for bedtime. She chose a Christmas PJ top with red and pink striped pants. To top it off, she put on some neon green shorts over the pants. Since she was going to bed, I didn’t care one bit. Often times, my daughter will want to wear a tutu over her jeans or pink running shoes with a dress. Here’s how I decide if I should let my preschooler choose her own outfit.
Weather
Weather is one of the most important factors in deciding if I will let my daughter choose her own clothing for the day. Obviously, if it is 40 degrees outside, I’m not going to let her wear a sundress and sandals (although she might try). However, that doesn’t mean I won’t give her a choice. I might pick out a few weather appropriate clothing choices. Yet, first, I give her a chance to choose a weather appropriate outfit all on her own.
Appropriate Attire
Most schools I know require the children to wear closed toed shoes. Thus, I won’t let my daughter wear flip flops to preschool. She has her play clothes and then she has her nicer clothes. Nicer clothes are reserved for church, parties and other special occasions like Christmas.
Messy Activities
I have stain sticks, bibs and smocks. Yet, this doesn’t mean I’m going to let my child wear her nicest clothing to finger paint or eat spaghetti. However, this also doesn’t mean my daughter doesn’t get a choice. She has an array of play clothes to choose from. These clothes might be a little faded. Some may have a tiny stain on the arm. Still, they are perfect for those rainy days when kids might be jumping in puddles, making cookies or doing art.
Dress up Time
There are times when I let my daughter wear whatever she wants. This is called dress up time. She has some ballerina clothes and old Halloween costumes. Pretty soon, I plan on getting her a doctor’s coat and a chef’s apron. Dress up is the perfect time for preschoolers to be able to wear whatever they want (within reason). It’s also a great opportunity for pretend play.
The next time you see a little one wearing two different shoes, a tutu and a pajama top, know that the child probably picked out their clothing. Personally, I think it’s endearing. Yet, there are also times when wardrobe boundaries must be put into place.
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