Rainy days shouldn't stop outdoor adventures. Whether your child is heading to forest school, nursery, preschool or simply loves jumping in puddles, the right waterproof clothing means they can stay warm, dry and comfortable whatever the weather.
At Little Adventure Shop, we've spent years helping families, nurseries and forest schools choose waterproof clothing that really works. Every product we stock is selected because it's practical, durable and designed for active children who love being outdoors.
If you're looking for waterproofs that have passed the ultimate "sit-in-a-puddle" test, here are our top recommendations.
Waterproof Dungarees – The Best All-Round Choice
If we had to recommend just one piece of waterproof clothing for toddlers, it would be waterproof dungarees.
There's a reason they're the preferred choice for so many forest schools, nurseries and outdoor settings. They provide excellent coverage, are comfortable to move around in and stop water creeping in when children are sitting, kneeling, climbing or crawling.
One of our favourite options is the Didriksons Plaskeman Dungarees. They're consistently popular with parents because they're genuinely waterproof and built to cope with everything from muddy puddles to wet grass and woodland adventures.
Parents particularly love them because they're so easy to care for. After a muddy day outdoors, there's often no need for a full wash—simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth and they're ready for the next adventure.
Features we love include:
- Fully waterproof construction
- Windproof protection
- Adjustable shoulder straps for a comfortable fit
- Elasticated ankles to help keep water out
- Underfoot loops to stop trousers riding up
- Durable fabric designed for everyday outdoor play
And yes—they're also wonderfully "builders' bum" proof!
Top tip: Washing waterproof clothing too frequently can reduce its performance over time. Always follow the care instructions and, where possible, wipe clean instead of machine washing after every use.
Waterproof Jackets – Don't Confuse Waterproof with Water-Resistant
One of the most common questions parents ask is:
"Is my child's winter coat waterproof?"
The answer is often no.
Many children's winter coats are very warm but they are water-resistant, which means they'll cope with a light shower but won't keep your child dry during prolonged rain or hours of outdoor play.
For forest school, nursery and long walks, choose a fully waterproof jacket. It's more important to make sure that the jacket if fully waterproof rather than insulated as you can always add an extra fleece of lightweight warm coat underneath. Layering clothing is also a great way to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the year.
The great news about waterproof jackets is that they don't cost a fortune either. The jackets from Reima and Didriksons are fully waterproof and very reasonably priced:
Don't Forget a Waterproof Hat
Keeping little heads dry makes a huge difference on wet days.
A waterproof southwester-style rain hat is often more practical than relying on a hood alone. It helps keep rain off your child's face while allowing them to hear what's happening around them without the constant rustling that hoods can create.
It won't necessarily make them listen any better—but at least they'll hear you!
Why Good Waterproofs Matter
Outdoor play doesn't stop when it rains—and neither should children's adventures.
Waterproof clothing gives children the freedom to explore puddles, climb logs, build dens and enjoy nature in comfort. Whether they're at nursery, forest school or simply exploring the local park, staying dry helps them stay happy outdoors for longer.
Good waterproofs are an investment that can be worn throughout the year and are designed to cope with plenty of muddy adventures.
Are waterproof dungarees better than waterproof trousers?
For toddlers, waterproof dungarees usually offer better protection because they cover the chest and back, helping to prevent water getting inside when children bend, climb or sit down.
What should children wear underneath waterproofs?
Waterproof clothing is designed to keep rain out rather than provide warmth. On colder days, dress your child in warm layers such as a fleece or thermal clothing underneath. In warmer weather, lighter clothing is usually enough.
How do I clean children's waterproofs?
For everyday mud, a quick wipe with a damp cloth is often all that's needed. When washing becomes necessary, always follow the manufacturer's care instructions to help maintain the waterproof finish.
How do I wash Forest School Waterproofs
The answer to this is basically not to wash them too often. If the waterproofs are really muddy you can sponge them down with a cloth to get the worst of the mud off. If you do need to wash waterproofs them in a machine then put them on a cool wash without fabric conditioner and leave to dry at room temperature, don't put them in a tumble dryer.
I hope you've found this article useful. If you need to sort your child out with some waterproof dungarees, jacket or a waterproof set then be sure to Shop Children's Waterproofs on our website.
Happy puddle splashing!