Whether I’m taking my two year old daughter backpacking on Lookout Mountain or heading to the the playground with both of my children, I always check the weather before setting out.
On this day I had both children, so we went to Imagination Station in Collegedale, Tn. for a little fun after the rain settled. Since everything is soggy (it’s the rainy season), I went with Oaki brand rain pants over sweats. My son cannot walk yet, so he wears form fitting leather shoes, but for my toddler I put her in Hunter rain boots. This outfit allows for them to sit on the ground, swings, and slides without getting soggy bottoms.
I take along snacks, water, and rain jackets in case the deluge begins again. There’s no need to let inclement weather keep you cooped up inside all day with the amount of cheap outdoor clothes available for children.
In my opinion, I think exposing children early on to all types of weather allows for them to get comfortable in a variety of settings, and it keeps them in tune with nature.
Some people don’t necessarily like playgrounds, but I find the atmosphere conducive for young children of different ages, and the setting is controlled. I don’t always have time to go for long backpacking trips, so the playground is great alternative for a couple hours in the morning or afternoon, usually scheduled around lunch and nap.
Outdoor Parenting 