The start of summer is just around the corner and excitement is certainly in the air. The summer months are the perfect time to spend time outdoors, go on trips, and generally embrace the warm weather and long days.
While the higher temperatures—many states will experience average temperatures of more than 80 °F—are welcome in one sense, the summer months can take a toll when it comes to comfort. That’s why our summer clothing choices are so important.
If you have young children, this blog post is for you. Here, we’ll look at children’s clothing for summer and share practical tips to ensure that your children are not only stylish this summer but also protected and comfortable. Let’s get started.
1. Temperature Regulation
One of the primary functions of clothing is to help regulate body temperature. This is something that becomes particularly crucial during the hot summer months.
When the weather is hot, the body needs to release heat to maintain a comfortable temperature. Therefore, children’s clothing choices can greatly impact the body’s ability to dissipate heat and stay cool.
When shopping for summer children’s clothing, we recommend that you look for breathable fabrics. Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and bamboo are excellent choices. This is because they allow air to circulate and facilitate the evaporation of sweat.
Moisture-wicking clothing that is loose and lightweight is best for children when the summer temperatures start to rise.
2. Consider Sun Protection
Children’s skin is more susceptible to sunburns than adults’, given that it is thinner. Protecting children’s delicate skin from the sun’s harmful rays is therefore of utmost importance.
The first thing to consider here is the UPF rating, which stands for ultraviolet protection factor. The UPF rating indicates the level of protection the fabric provides against UV radiation.
We recommend that you opt for clothing with a UPF rating of 50 or more. This offers excellent protection by blocking out a significant percentage of UV rays.
When shopping for kids’ clothes, check out these toddler sun hats that are both stylish and practical for the summer months.
3. Pay Attention to Size and Fit
Above we mentioned that loose and lightweight clothing is best for children during the summer months. To expand on this point, there is a balance to be struck: you should avoid choosing clothes that are either too tight or too loose.
Avoid garments that are too tight or restrictive, as they can cause discomfort and restrict movement. On the other hand, oversized clothing may lead to accidents or make it difficult for your child to play freely.
Also, remember that children are growing all the time. Therefore, it’s a good idea to choose items with adjustable features like elastic waistbands or drawstrings. This helps to accommodate growth and provide a better fit.
4. Prioritize Durability
It’s a fact that children love to make a mess! Children are, by nature, adventurous and curious. This means that their clothing should be well able to withstand everything that goes with this.
Before making a clothing purchase, it’s good to examine the stitching, seams, and overall construction of the garments. Reinforced stitching and double-layered areas, such as knee patches, can enhance the longevity of the clothing.
Choosing high-quality materials and well-constructed pieces will ensure that the clothing withstands the wear and tear of an active child.
5. Consider Fabric Choices
On this point, we recommend that you choose fabrics that are easy to maintain. For example, fabrics that are machine washable and require minimal ironing are best. Opting for machine-washable fabrics makes it convenient for parents to clean the garments quickly and effectively.
One of the best things to do in summer is participate in water activities, which does mean that children’s clothes can get wet frequently. Choosing fabrics that dry quickly allows children to get back to playing without prolonged discomfort or the need for frequent clothing changes.
Fabrics like polyester and nylon are known for their quick-drying properties, making them suitable for swimwear or outdoor clothing.
6. Involve Your Child
This point is particularly valid if your child is a little older and has their own style preferences. The reality is that clothing is a means of self-expression.
Involving children in the selection process encourages them to express their individuality and creativity. Plus, allowing children to have a say in their clothing choices also empowers them and fosters a sense of independence.
Of course, parents can and should provide guidance on practical considerations such as appropriateness for weather conditions, durability, and budget constraints.
7. Prioritize Safety Features
When choosing children’s clothing for the summer months, it’s also essential to prioritize safety features that can help prevent accidents or injuries. We recommend that you opt for clothing options with the following features:
- Flame-resistance
- Non-toxic materials
- Secure clothing
- Reflective or high-visibility elements
- Allergen-free materials
These features provide an extra layer of peace of mind while allowing children to enjoy their summer activities with reduced risks.
Tips for Choosing Quality Children’s Clothing for Summer
The bottom line is that choosing high-quality children’s clothing for summer requires attention to detail and consideration of various factors. These include fabric, sun protection, size and fit, durability, and involving your child in the process.
By following these seven tips, you can select clothing that not only keeps your child comfortable and protected but also withstands their active lifestyle.
Like this blog post on buying children’s clothes this summer? Be sure to check out our other informative articles on a wide range of interesting topics.
