No Such Thing as Bad Weather, Only Muddy Clothing!
In the UK, the transition into autumn is a curious meteorological time: one week bringing heatwaves, the next a dirge of rain, all cleared out by a Siberian blast. The met-office is advanced in their warning and perhaps, understandably, exaggerative in their predictions. Taking them with half a pinch of salt puts us in a comfortable position to plan for our children’s outings: mainly, that they are dressed correctly.
Our inner-parent might naturally have the urge to say ‘no’ when it comes to children engaging in activities that will get them wet, muddy and likely to tumble, but autumn is a fine opportunity to give your child autonomy. We cannot wrap them in cotton wool nor shoo off every germ coming their way. Moreover, the school term is fast approaching and you will not be there to stop them dashing through leaves and making mud pies. We best embrace it!
Dig out those wellington boots (yours too) and those cute raincoats and allow them a good splash in the puddles. If a child is well, don’t let the rain and earth stop the fun! As long as we give children a good wash and dry off afterwards, there will be no harm done. Let them run around and kick up the magical colours of autumn or help them collect a worthy item or two for their craftwork, and if they fall down, encourage them to bounce back up again with no more than a dusting off.
Allowing children to appreciate the world in all its seasons puts them in great stead for a full and fearless future, a respect for nature and perhaps a hint of hygiene—after all is done, we can let our parent loose: “Now, wash your hands!”
Good clean fun!