Judging from the outfits on Project Runway or in the fashion mags, it seems like anything goes when it comes to clothes these days. So it’s easy to see why kids may want to dress themselves—shall we say?—more creatively. But whether they’re toddlers or teens, sometimes what they want to wear can wear on us. Why not try to strike a compromise? Here are a few things to consider when it comes to keeping clothing calm (on both sides).
Try to Make It “Give and Take”
It’s easy to forget in the heat of the clothing moment, but most times our kids are just reaching for a little independence and individuality. (A quick peek back at our childhood photos can be enlightening, to say the least.) They see clothing as an easy place to assert who they are, what they like. A lot of the choices and events in their day, they may not have much control over—what time they go to school, how they get there, what they eat for lunch—but clothing is a slice of their life where choice is possible. So maybe there are times when they choose—like when your little guy wants to wear his SpongeBob SquarePants costume to the grocery store. And then there are times when it’s clear that you choose (or at least approve)—like what they wear to worship service or Grandma’s house.
Consider Just a Few Upfront Rules
If your 6-year-old insists on wearing her Uggs to the pool, that’s one thing. Doing so isn’t going to do her any harm, and she’ll soon realize they make her feet hot. But on the other hand, if she insists on wearing her new Crocs in the snow, it’s time to step in. Setting just a few clear boundaries centering around what’s weather-appropriate and what’s too revealing, for instance, can help set expectations everyone can live with. And don’t forget cleanliness—it’s easy to overlook, especially from a kid’s point of view. Make a simple rule that clothing choices shouldn’t be dirty or smelly. If your child has a favorite outfit he insists on wearing every day, buy duplicates. To encourage him to use the laundry basket, attach a basketball hoop above it.
Plan Ahead
If your child picks out their own clothes to wear, have them do it the night before. That way, you can head off any problems in the morning, when time pressures can make tempers more likely to flare. And think about asking why particular outfits or clothing items are their favorites—it can help you agree on what’s most important when picking out new clothes. Maybe it’s just about the color or the fabric.
Focus on Subtle Steering
To guide younger children in the right direction, store older or out-of-season items in places that are difficult to reach. And with all ages, compliment good choices. If your child comes downstairs looking pretty good, go ahead and tell them so. No need to gush; just say: “You look really nice today.” When they’re dressed less desirably, don’t say anything. Eventually, they’ll get the message.
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