This weekend heralded CB’s 2nd birthday (Duplo, Duplo and a toy hoover – he was in heaven) and with it came the day all parents dread. His first day at nursery.
These first two years have whipped by in a blink of an eye. One minute you’re breastfeeding a tiny, wriggly thing that has no control over its arms/legs/bowel movements – then whoosh – you have a fully formed, opinionated toddler, ready to head out into the world of education. Sniff.
In the last few weeks I’ve been picking up a few bits and bobs that the nursery pointed out might be useful:
First up, outerwear. I love that his little homely nursery school ensures they are outside as much as possible, come rain or shine. But that means they need all the wet weather kit.
We’re hoping we’ve got all weather-conditions covered with these two items.
1/ Baby Joules waterproof and fleece lined jacket (£49.95). It’s super warm, cosy, smart, hooded… the works. Although a bit too belt-and-braces for the current mild Autumn we’re having in Devon.
2/ Hippy Chicks waterproof all in one (£27.50). I am so, so, so, happy I was recommended this brand by another outdoor-loving mum. The all-in-one waterproof is a brilliant idea. We just slip it on over his normal clothes and he is good to go, whatever the weather. It’s water and wind proof, but breathable too. It is going to be invaluable on the back of our bike. I love that the ankles, wrists and waist all have velcro tabs on them so you can adjust them around wellies/gloves etc for a snug fit. The hood has velcro securing straps too, so it won’t blow off in the wind. It’s the perfect winter beach-combing outfit.
CB has been wearing his crocs pretty much solidly from May. There is a reason they are super glued to the feet of most under 5s. They can go in the sea in them, stomp through mud, splatter them in paint… they are indestructable and crucially, there is nothing that a quick blast with the hose won’t fix. I’ll be honest, I was a little stumped as to what footwear to get him come autumn, that would be as hard-wearing and versatile, then I discovered Crocs Wellies (£23). Result. All the benefits of the Crocs, in a winter-friendly alternative.
Obviously I wouldn’t have him walking in these for long periods. He has his everyday Clarks leather shoes that are width fitted, but for stomping around the garden/beach/woods. These are perfect.
His last bit of kit was a birthday present from his godmother. A monkey backpack from Skip Hop (available at Mothercare and JoJo Maman Bebe). It has an additional safety harness too which is useful for keeping them close when out and about, but he will generally be using it to carry his changing stuff, drink, snacks, conkers, toy soldiers etc.
