Clothing and Gear

At the Olympia Waldorf School, we embrace the outdoors. To keep that experience enjoyable for students, it is important to dress them in clothing that will keep them dry and comfortable no matter the season. For parents of newly enrolled students – especially those in early childhood programs – this may be a new and confusing challenge. Don't worry, we're here to help.

For Early Childhood, here is a list of items to bring on the first day of school.

Base layers

• Non-slip slippers
• Change of socks (wool are best for winter)
• Change of underwear
• Change of pants
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Short-sleeved shirt

Outer layers (see where to shop below)

• ​Sunhat
• Rain coat
• Rain pants (bib overalls are best)
• Insulated rain boots
• Warm hat
• Warm gloves 
• Warm sweater
• Rain mittens with a rubberized outer coating. Preferably multiple pairs in case they get wet or misplaced.

Reminders

• Regularly check your child's cubby to ensure all necessary items, including a full set of clean, dry clothes, are available at school.​
• Write your child's name on every item to ensure it finds its way home. Otherwise, you'll make many visits to the lost and found pile.
• All clothing should be free from media images or other distracting images.
• Shoes must be sturdy, closed-toed, easy for the child to put on, and without lights.
• Please leave all of your child's toys and special jewelry at home.

Pro tips

• The most effective rain gear has a rubberized outer coating that is 100% waterproof. Outerwear made from woven fabric may not withstand heavy rain as well.
• If you are considering a one-piece rain suit, please talk to your teacher first and see what they recommend. Even on nice days, some teachers prefer to have students wear rain pants so they can play in the dirt or walk in the dew-covered grass. With a full-body suit, you don't have the flexibility to choose one half or the other.
• Consider buying a boot/glove dryer. Kids will inevitably find the deepest puddle to jump in or the biggest gutter waterfall to stand under. A dryer will ensure that their boots and gloves are ready the next day so they can do it all over again.

Check out our Facebook gear exchange group.

Where to shop

• Bogs
• Oaki
• Outdoor School Shop (15% off with code: Olympia)
• ​Puddlegear​​

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Comfort Kits

A Comfort Kit is intended to sustain a child in the short term following an emergency. Please gather the following items and put them in a gallon-sized ziploc plastic bag. Clearly label the bag with your child's name and bring it on the first day of school. The kit will be stored in the classroom and returned at the end of the school year.

Non-perishable food items (2000-3000 calories total)

• 2 granola/protein bars
• 2 small package nuts (not salty)
• 2 small package crackers or similar
• Canned juice, coconut water, etc.
• Small water bottle
• Fruit leather

For comfort and entertainment

• Stuffed animal or lovey (for young child)
• Extra underwear (young child)
• Family photo and note of comfort
• One leaf/lawn garbage bag (rain gear)
• One plastic grocery bag
• Space blanket
• Small book/pencil and drawing pad
• Deck of cards or small game
• A few bandages