We recommend using second-hand winter clothing whenever possible to reduce expense and environmental impact.

Both of our preferred providers offer second-hand options.

+ Outdoor School Shop

+ Prolarn O. Pyret

Recommended Clothing List and Tips

Reminder: children will be outside for the entirety of their session at the Co-op

TIPS

Tip #1: Layers are important. Kids can shed layers if they get too warm as they go about their day at the Co-op. 

Tip #2: Avoid cotton. Cotton absorbs sweat/moisture and, when wet, does not insulate. Synthetic materials or wool are recommended. This includes socks.

Tip #3: If your child struggles to make it to the bathroom before soiling themselves, please don’t put them in one-piece clothing (such as snow suits or snow bibs). We want them to be independently successful. 

Tip #4: Do not wash outer layers unless absolutely necessary. Brush/hose off mud and hang to dry. Too much washing can ruin the waterproofing on gear. 

Tip #5: Do not put wool items in your clothes dryer. Hang to dry. 

Tip #6: Rain pants and/or snow pants should fit over boots, not inside them.

Tip #7: If you want to be sure your child’s items return to your home, label their items.

The Spokane Learning Co-Op will not be held responsible for lost or damaged gear/clothing.

FALL & SPRING

Pants (to prevent scratched up or itchy legs as children explore the woods and our straw bale pyramid)

Light jacket or sweatshirt on dry days

Rain gear

Waterproof pants and jacket

Rain boots or waterproof shoes

WINTER

Synthetic or wool base layer (long underwear), followed by a fleece layer (fleece pants, fleece zip-up jacket), then an insulation layer (snow pants, down/synthetic puffy coat or ski coat). If it’s a cold and wet day, rain gear can go on top of the layers to further keep things dry. 

Waterproof gloves/mittens (for younger children, mittens with long cuffs are most helpful, as they are designed to go over your child’s jacket sleeves and are easier to manage than the kind that go under sleeves).

Fleece or wool hats

Fleece, synthetic or wool neck warmer (gaiters, balaclava, scarf)

Fleece, wool or synthetic gloves with a pair of waterproof or rain mittens over the top

A quality pair of snow/cold weather boots with a good amount of traction on the sole