Autumn Weather Essentials for Kids

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I’ve shared a few times that we are doing the Exploring Nature with Children curriculum this year. I think our time outdoors will benefit from the weekly focus and will, even on the worst weeks weather-wise, encourage us out of the house and out exploring.

I’ve learnt over the years, that there are a couple of things that make getting outdoors with children much easier

Waterproofs

I’ve learnt that investing in a couple of pairs of waterproof trousers is key! I want the children to enjoy splashing around in puddles and the such without worrying that they’re going to ruin their clothes. I bought some waterproof trousers for them and they all have a couple of pairs each. They stay in a box in the boot of the car so we have them with us for unexpected bad weather.

I also have wellies and good waterproof jackets for the children (and me!) and these are amongst our most used items in the autumn and winter time.

An old rucksack

I have an old backpack/rucksack that I don’t mind getting muddy or filled with various collections. I always take a drink with me, and usually a snack. We invariably end up collecting sticks and conkers, acorns and leaves so having an old bag to pop them into works well for us.

I also have a couple of flasks, a proper thermos style flask as well as a cafe cap flask for me. I usually do hot chocolate for the children and a coffee for me. It certainly warms us up on the colder walks out.

Nature Book

Having access to a couple of spotter guides to help identify trees and flowers can be useful and help to keep children engaged. We also like the seek app (although it can be a bit hit and miss sometimes). The older two children also have a nature journal that we record some things into that have taken their interest. It’s a really lovely book.

Learn to love the Wet Weather

I’m definely learning to love the wet weather, and it’s more about making sure you have the right clothing. Waterproofs make it all a lot easier to deal with and having lightweight towels to dry yourself off with and bags to put clothing into to put straight into the washing machine is a good way to deal with the messyness! Children love jumping in puddles and playing in the rain, and rarely feel the cold weather in the same way that we do as adults. Embracing the seasons and getting wet and muddy alongside the children will make for a fun family outing for all!