Clothing Choices

Children need to learn how to make proper clothing choices.  Weather and occasion should be taken into consideration.  I started early, about three years old, giving my boys two shirts to choose from for school/daycare.  Then gradually you can add more choices until they are able to do it themselves.  If your child is determined to wear inappropriate clothing, start by showing them what you will be wearing and explaining why.  Still not changing? If it is winter and they want to wear a special t-shirt put a long sleeved shirt under it, if it is summer and they are certain about a sweat shirt again put a t-shirt under so when they get hot they can cool down.
Now special occasions can be a more difficult battle....make a big deal about dressing up for the occasion.  Choices here are very important especially if the child is going to have the clothing on for an extended period of time, for example before, during, and possible after a wedding and then reception.  If your six year old son enjoys a coat and tie, let him help choose the tie.  If he doesn't, a nice golf shirt with khaki pants will be totally appropriate.  For little girls dress them up or down to fit their tastes.  An eight year old tomboy is probably not going to sit through any service in ruffles and lace, but a skirt with a shirt on that she picked out may be just the thing to make her look like a little lady.  Also, please remember the importance of comfortable shoes.  How many times will they come off if they are a little tight?  Every time you put them on! Simple slip on shoes are convenient, but as easy as you slip them on they can be slipped off!  Tie up shoes (double tied) and buckles may be better choices in the long run if your child has a tendency to want to be bare-footed.