If They Don't Like It They Won't Wear It!

Fitting a child for ski and snowboard wear is unique because it combines the need for performance with the need of the individual to express themselves. Even at a very young age children have a self-image and should be encouraged to explore it. I remember my very articulate 2-year-old son, looking at the Pooh outfit I’d pulled for him to wear that day and retorting “I’m not wearing that, I look like a dork.” The fact is that performance winter wear is not like a Pooh outfit because once you buy it – you’re stuck with it for a while, it’s not like you have another just hanging in the closet. It is therefore imperative that you take the childes concerns and opinions into account when choosing ski and snowboard apparel. Depending on the age of the child this can be done in several ways. For very young children have them look at several items that are on their needs list. Narrow it down to the ones you feel you could live with and allow them to choose. The younger they are the fewer choices they should have. 2-3 options are usually effective for most kids. Once you have given them the choice do not try to talk them out of it. This will undo all the good you have done by teaching them that even though they have opinions those opinions are somehow wrong or flawed.

For older children give them specific criteria that their purchase must meet for you to approve it. The help them through the process but stand back and allow them to do as much of it as possible – be there for assistance and a sounding board only. The criteria you use may vary depending on what it is they are buying but should include:

1. A Dollar Limit (but allow them to put their own money towards more expensive items if they choose)

2. Proper Fit

3. Must Include the Designated Items on the Checklist

4. Must Fit Into Your Investment Plan (See 2007 entries on Investment Buying)

5. Color Restrictions (if you have anything that nauseates you make sure it is off the list!)

6. Logo Restrictions (many companies have logos, pictures and statements that you may find offensive or inappropriate)

Once you have outlined your requirements let them go from there and again, support them in their decisions – this is an important life lesson that will aid in their decision-making skills in all areas of their life. The key is to be ok with whatever the child chooses (as long as it meets the pre-stated criteria). The number one thing to remember is that no matter how well a garment fits, if the child doesn’t like it they won’t wear it!