Child development experts say choosing their own clothes is a way preschoolers make progress towards independence. Learning to take care of yourself is a task that is important to social and emotional development, especially during the preschool years.
But, a preschooler's decision is often inappropriate. So, I've had to learn to pick my battles. While travelling, I bit my tongue when Luke insisted on wearing shorts with knee-high gray socks and four layers of shirts. He insisted it was a great idea since he could take off a few shirts if he got hot on the plane. I couldn't entirely disagree. He often sports the same look to school, but I drew the line at Easter Sunday services and my brother's wedding. That's when, like my husband, Luke had to wear a suit.
For Emma, she can wear her Princess dresses on play dates, but they have to stay at home on school days. Sometimes, as a parent, you may need to compromise. For instance, if you child insists on wearing pajamas to school, suggest he wears the pajama top under another shirt. I've found, when Luke or Emma picks an outfit inappropriate for the weather (thick, long pants when it's hot out), it's a great opportunity for me to give them a little lesson on weather (something, you know I like to do!)
Now that I'm a mom, I understand the look of defeat I once saw on a mother who, in the middle of summer, was grocery shopping with her child dressed head-to-toe in a Halloween costume. At these times, it's important to remember that, in the long run, a child who learns to make his or her own decisions will grow more confident, happier and independent. And that's much more important than being well-dressed.
Happy parenting!
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