As a kindergarten teacher on Vancouver Island, I’ve come to appreciate the unpredictable weather and how important it is to be prepared for it. If you've spent any time outdoors on the island, especially recently, you know how wet it can get! Whether it's drizzling, pouring, or just soggy underfoot, the right clothing makes all the difference when it comes to outdoor education.

As I've heard many times before, "There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing." It’s a saying I’ve come to live by, especially in my kindergarten classroom. The students who arrive dressed for the weather are able to fully engage in the outdoor activities we enjoy so much—rain or shine. But not all students come prepared, and that’s perfectly okay!

For those who aren’t quite ready for the elements, I always have a stash of hand-me-downs available. I reach out to local moms' groups, and you’d be amazed at how many generous donations come in. A quick trip through the lost and found at the end of the year also yields some hidden treasures. Before any of it gets donated, I always make sure to sift through it to see if any of those gently used clothes can fit my current crop of kids. It's a wonderful way to keep everyone dry and comfortable without breaking the bank!

The beauty of outdoor education, particularly on Vancouver Island, is that it helps our little ones build resilience, embrace nature, and have fun, no matter the weather. And while we can’t control the rain or the wind, we can make sure our kiddos are dressed to enjoy every moment outside.