Having not written for a year, potential subjects abound. The first that come to mind, however, happen to fall into the “pet peeves” category.
I get it. It’s hard to dress a two year old. The conversation usually involves a lot of “Mommy I do!” and “No!” and it takes tact and patience just to avoid total meltdown. I am also all for self-help skills. By all means let your kiddo put on their shoes (which most of my 2 year olds can do!) pick out their outfit, etc. But just like you give your child some guidance about what is acceptable, here are some ideas from someone who has to play with them all day.
1. When you are potty training, don’t send your child to school in a onesie and overalls (or skinny jeans). Or do, but don’t complain when they get peed/pooped on and I put your kid in leggings and a t-shirt. Have your child try to pull their pants down before you leave the house. If they can’t do it, change.
2. I know they are expensive, I know they don’t last long… but buy good quality, sturdy tennis shoes. Yes, those little suede boots are ADORABLE. They really are. But she takes them off about 30 times a day, and they are a PAIN to get on. The same goes for sandals, Uggs, Converses and anything that looks like a tie shoe that isn’t. I’ve seen lots of boys’ shoes lately that have Velcro or a zipper down the side. Just remember, when you pick your kid up – I have no idea how their feet got wrapped in duct tape.
3. White shirts, dresses, etc. We play outside, use paint, markers, crayons and playdough. I don’t care if you don’t care, just don’t complain when it looks more like tie-dye at 5 o’clock.
4. Skirts. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again: put something under them. Leggings, shorts, or bloomers. It keeps diapers from shifting or getting dirt in them (ouch!) and teaches older girls about privacy and their undergarments.
Have suggestions about what makes (or doesn’t make) a perfect play outfit? Leave a comment!
June 1, 2011 at 11:54 am
We just invested in 45$ shoes for Ade (primarily for our Disney World trip in September..I’m lucky her feet dont change size alot in 6 months). We got her toddler Pumas…still stylish and they have ties and velco so its an either/or for if shes putting them on or I am. I saw some great shoes from Saucony, North Face, and New Balance too. Merrell makes AWESOME hiking boots for size 8 toddler and larger.
Always check for coupons and check the price online vs your local store. Most sites (piperlime, shoebuy etc) offer free returns and free shipping. We got piperlime sauconys (38$) for 27$ at another site with an online coupon. And the pumas? Down to 28$ direct from Puma.com. Totally worth it.
…as for play outfits, we buy leggings that are a size or two too short (I get away with this cuz Ive got skinny tall kids though..) and put them under dresses or skirts. Then you dont even see the leggings but you’ve got full upper thigh and lady protection.
Ade’s potty trained and hasnt had too much trouble getting them off. I also dont make her go byherself though so I can help if she gets hung up….