Kids and Nature I believe that children need nature and that nature needs kids to be in it in order for our world to survive.

I honestly think that a lot of the reason why people don’t like the rain is that they had a bad experience when they were a kid.  Too many of us had ponchos or windbreakers as rain gear when we were little and, as a result, the rain meant being cold and wet.

It doesn’t have to be that way.

I’m  strong believer in outside in all weather.  Now, to do that, you have to make sure that you and your kids are equipped to be warm and dry.

That starts with making sure that you have the base layer taken care of.  If you live some place where rain and warm go together, you’re all set, but for the cold rains that we used to get on Vancouver Island it means sweats, a hat and mitts – all synthetic of course – likely you have that already, but if not it can be hard for under $30.

Then, look to buy a pair of rubber boots.  For you, you can find a black pair for under $20, and a brightly coloured fun pair for your child at about the same cost.

Then, it’s time for the rain suit.  You want to make sure that you’re covering your legs and your torso.  More so for your child.

There are one piece suits available for kids – we’ve had this one for a while and our three year old loves it.

Two piece suits are also a good idea.  Just make sure that the top is a jacket and not a poncho – sleeves make a big difference.  I also recommend buying fully waterproof for kids over the waterproof breathable fabrics. You’re going to replacing this stuff often as your kids grow and, with that in mind, cheaper is better.

So, now you’re outfitted with quality rain gear, you’re going to be dry in the rain.  Now you can get out there and hike, paddle or just go splashing in all weather.