What to wear
Rain, mud, moss, and puddles are part of the therapy room. The right layers let your child focus on moving, exploring, and building skills.
Why clothing matters
A child who is cold, wet, or uncomfortable has a hard time focusing and staying regulated. A child who is warm, dry, and free to move can climb, dig, balance, and explore.
🧒Independence: Zipping jackets and pulling on boots are real occupational therapy skills.
🧶Sensory comfort: Soft, well-fitting layers help sensitive kids stay calm and engaged.
🦶Safety: Closed-toe shoes with good grip protect feet on uneven ground.
The Seattle layering system
Our weather changes fast, so plan for three layers that can come off and go back on.
🧥 Outer layer: Waterproof rain jacket and rain pants
Hooded jacket plus rain pants or a one-piece rain suit. Adjustable cuffs and easy zippers help kids dress themselves.
🧶Middle layer: Fleece for warmth
The layer that comes off when your child heats up from running, climbing, and hauling logs.
👕Base layer: Wool, merino, or synthetic
Long sleeves and leggings next to the skin. Skip cotton when it's cold or wet, since it holds moisture and chills quickly.
Feet, hands, and heads
👢 Footwear
Waterproof rain boots with room for thick socks
Sturdy closed-toe shoes on dry days
Wool or synthetic socks, plus a spare pair
No sandals, flip-flops, or slip-ons
🧤Accessories
Warm hat that covers the ears
Waterproof or quick-dry gloves your child can put on alone
Sun hat and sunscreen in summer
Neck gaiter or buff for chilly mornings
🎒What to pack
Full change of clothes, including socks and underwear
Plastic bag for muddy clothes
Water bottle and snack
Small towel
What to wear by season
🍂Fall
Rain gear, layers, and warm socks. Leaf piles and wet trails are perfect for stomping, raking, and jumping.
❄️Winter
Insulated layers, hat, gloves, and warm boots. Dry mittens in the bag make a big difference.
🌱Spring
Waterproofs, light layers, and clothes that can get muddy. Great weather for planting and bug hunting.
☀️Summer
Breathable long sleeves, a sun hat, sunscreen, and bug protection. Yes, Seattle gets sun too.
Quick tips for parents
Dress them to get dirty. Mud and wet knees mean a great session.
Choose simple fasteners like zippers, Velcro, and pull-ons.
Check for scratchy tags, tight seams, or stiff fabrics, especially for sensory-sensitive kids.
Label everything with your child's name.
Avoid drawstrings and loose scarves that can catch on branches.
Tuck pants into boots or wear rain pants to keep legs dry.
When in doubt, bring an extra layer.
Not sure what your child needs?
You don't need expensive gear, just layers, waterproofs, sturdy footwear, and a willingness to embrace the mess. If your child has sensory sensitivities, reach out and we'll help you get ready.
