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Avoiding Coat Combat!

Sometimes you'll find it's tough to get your young child into his or her coat, no matter how cold it is outdoors. Though having to put on clothes at someone else's command may prompt resistance from a toddler, a coat or snowsuit is probably top of the list for wardrobe rebellion. This is probably because no other item of clothing restricts their freedom of movement so much. Additionally, whilst there's often scope for individual expression in other areas of dressing, there usually isn't with a coat - when you need one, you need one! So, how can you make getting that coat onto your child less of a struggle?

With the right materials

Some thick winter jackets make it almost impossible for the wearer to move. Avoid coats that are too tight, bulky, itchy, heavy or too restrictive. Choose light-weight insulating materials over heavier ones such as wool.

Offer choice

Obviously you can't stuff your toddler's closet with a variety of expensive outerwear so they can choose the coat they like that day. But you can make the next coat you buy a reversible one. That way he or she will be able to decide which side out to wear on any given day. And if it's not too cold, perhaps you can dispense with the coat and give them the option of wearing an additional sweater or fleece.

Add interest

A boring old coat can become a top favourite when it's been adorned with appliques, colored patches, braid, bobbles - whatever takes your (and your child's) fancy! But remember, never ever add your child's name to the visible part of any outdoor clothing - you don't want to give strangers the means of attracting his or her attention. Scruffy's Bookshop has loads of great illustrated books - why not transfer one or two of our pictures onto fabric and apply them to the coat? You could tell a whole story around the hem maybe?

Distraction

Talking fast or drawing their attention to other toys, household objects or family pets can take your toddler's mind off resistance when you it's time to put on the dreaded coat.

Make it into a game

Do something silly with the hated garment before attempting to put it on your child. Put it on yourself (which should be quite amusing!) and announce that you're ready to go. Or drape it over the dog, play hide and seek with it .... there are loads of possibilities. Hopefully your toddler will find it all so funny that there won't be any protests when it's time to actually put the coat on.

Try reasoning

It can work sometimes! Before a tantrum has developed, after which there will be no point in trying to talk sensibly with your child, explain why you want them to dress for outdoors, that it's cold outside, everyone else is dressed for the weather. Maybe fake a few shivers.

Of course if all else fails, you're the boss and you'll simply have to put the coat on your child anyway. Be firm but understanding, "I know you don't like to wear this, but it's cold outside to day so you have to," and quickly distract him or her once they're ready.

About the Author

Ellie Dixon lives in deepest rural Devon, England with her husband and two very large Newfoundland dogs. She is passionate about vintage illustrated children's books and loves to restore and edit them for today's kids to rediscover. Visit her website, Scruffy's Bookshop, to download some great books for pre-schoolers and older children, and while you're there sign up for her free monthly newsletter.

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