How to Dress Your Forest Schooler for LA's Wet and Rainy Season
EverWild’s Forest Pre-k & Kinder class in Santa Clarita, the Finches explore the usually dry river bed after some rain!
The fall and winter seasons provide a wonderful opportunity for discovery. The normally dry SoCal desert landscapes and canyons come to life with just a small amount of rain. Mushrooms burst out of the fallen oak trees and colors become vibrant! Spending time outside during these months allows children to observe the seasons changes and witness Mother Nature slow down.
“There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” ―Alfred Wainwright, A Coast to Coast Walk
Preparing your child to explore outdoors during these months is the best way to ensure their comfort and enjoyment! The best way to prepare your child for forest school is to check the weather before each week. EverWild refers to NOAA, Weather Underground, Air Now, and the Air Now Fire and Smoke map. AirNow was created by the National Weather Service and uses NOAA maps.
View the list below to update your families winter gear!
Cold and Wet Weather Day Gear List:
For the Body:
Layers. No cotton! Cotton takes a long time to dry and will not insulate. Choose merino wool or synthetic base layers. Example HERE and HERE
Fleece Jacket with Hood. Example HERE
Waterproof Jacket with Hood and Waterproof Pants. Example HERE
Wool Socks. They make all the difference!
Rain Boots. Look into insulated rain boots for extra cold. (Likely not necessary in LA) Example HERE and HERE
Cozy Hat and Gloves.
For the Backpack:
Rain Cover. A trash bag will also work!
Packable Towel for drying off.
Change of clothes in a plastic/waterproof bag.
Optional: umbrella.
For the Belly:
Warm Soup and Hot Tea/Cocoa in Thermos.
Looking for rainy day gear?
We recommend second hand stores, your local buy nothing groups or Facebook Marketplace. Alternatively, Outdoor School Shop sells fantastic gear for kids.