Teacher Approved: Our Top Picks for Preschool Gear
As both teachers and parents, we’re frequently asked for recommendations on the best gear for kids. After decades of experience, we’ve compiled a list of some of our top picks for preschool essentials:
Backpack
Look for a backpack that can fit all the winter gear your child will need to bring to school. Some great options include LL Bean, Lands' End, and Pottery Barn. These brands offer roomy backpacks that can comfortably hold mittens, snow pants, and extra clothes that a child will need to bring to school each day.
Lunch Box
One of our favorites is the Bentgo Box, available on Amazon. It’s perfect for preschoolers
– easy for them to open and close independently, and provides just the right amount of space for
a 3-5 year old’s lunch.
BOOTS
BOGS are hands down the best Vermont boots for kids. Warm, waterproof, rugged and easy to put on and pull off. They are often on sale in the spring so stock up!
Mittens
Children should have at least two pairs of long, waterproof mittens. Mittens are not only easier for kids to manage than gloves, but they also provide better warmth. Be sure to choose mittens that extend up the sleeve to keep snow from getting inside.
Hats
It's essential that hats fully cover the child’s ears to keep them warm. Beanie-style hats often don't stay in place if a child has long hair, so look for options that offer a snug, secure fit.
Jackets & Snow Pants
When selecting winter gear, there are two key things to consider:
-
Make sure the jacket sleeves and pant legs are long enough to keep the snow out.
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Ensure the jacket and snow pants are still water-resistant—they should not be so worn or handed down that they've lost their waterproofing.
Some affordable yet high-quality options include Lands' End (especially when on sale), LL Bean, Columbia, Artix, Costco, Sierra Trading Post, and even eBay.
Rain Gear
A good pair of rain pants is a game-changer for kids in Vermont. With mud season lasting for months, rain gear keeps children dry and protects their clothing from stains. Brands like LL Bean, Oakiwear, and Lands' End offer great options. While full rain suits are wonderful, they can be tricky for warmer weather when a jacket isn't needed. Suspender-style rain pants can be tough for young kids to put on independently, so we recommend sticking with the more traditional pant-style rain gear.
Shoes
For both indoor and outdoor play, we love Croc-style shoes. They’re comfortable, washable, dry quickly, and are easy for kids to put on by themselves. Avoid shoes with laces or ties, as preschoolers often lack the fine motor skills to tie them. Make sure the shoes fit properly to prevent blisters or tripping.
A General Rule
If a child struggles to dress or undress independently at home, they will likely face the same challenges at school. We encourage families to practice at home to ensure the gear is easy to manage. With 17 children in a class, we ask kids to try dressing themselves and “show us what they know” first before seeking help from an adult. The easier their clothing is to manipulate, the more successful and confident they will feel.
