Why don't young children like wearing coats?

Often you'll find it's almost impossible to get your toddler into his or her coat, no matter how cold it is outside. Though having to put on clothes at someone else's command may prompt resistance from a young child, a coat or snowsuit is probably the worst offender for wardrobe rebels. This is most likely 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 it's cold you have to wear one! So, how can you make getting that coat onto your child less of a struggle?

Make sure it's made of the right materials

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

Offer your toddler some choice

Obviously you can't stuff your toddler's closet with a variety of expensive outdoor wear. But you can make the next coat you buy a reversible one. That means he or she will be able to decide which side out to wear on any particular day. And if it's not too cold, perhaps you can do without the coat and allow them the choice of wearing an additional sweater or fleece.

Make it funky

A despised old coat can become a number one 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

Speaking quickly or drawing attention to other objects can take your child's mind off resistance when you approach with the dreaded coat.

Offer the unexpected

Do something silly with the hated garment before attempting make your child wear it. Put it on yourself (which should be quite comical!) and say that you're ready to go. Or drape it over the dog, play hide and seek with it .... there are lots of possibilities. If you're in luck your young child will find it all so amusing that there won't be any protests when it's time to actually put the coat on. Try explanations

It can work occasionally! Before a tantrum has developed, after which there will be no point in trying to talk sensibly with your child, tell them 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 in charge and you'll just have to put the coat on your child anyway. Be firm but understanding, "I know you don't enjoy wearing this, but it's cold outside today so you have to," and speedily distract him or her once they're ready.