Embracing the Mud: Preparing for a Rainy Day at Forest and Nature School

As the saying goes, "There is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing". At Wild Fauna, a rainy day isn't a reason to stay inside—it’s an invitation for a brand-new type of adventure. From building dams in fresh streams to hunting for "minibeasts" like slugs and snails, the forest truly comes alive when it’s wet. Some would even say a rainy day outside can be considered to be very cleansing for the sole.

To ensure your little explorer has the best time possible, preparation is key. Here is your ultimate guide to getting ready for a splashy, muddy, and magical day in the woods.

1. Master the Three-Layer System

The secret to staying warm and dry is layering with the right materials. Avoid cotton at all costs. Once cotton gets wet, it stays wet, making kids cold and uncomfortable very quickly.

• Base Layer (The "Wick"): Choose merino wool, silk, or synthetic fabrics. These materials pull moisture away from the skin and keep kids warm even if they get damp.

• Mid Layer (The "Warmth"): A fleece jacket or wool sweater provides an insulating layer of "dead air" to trap body heat.

• Outer Layer (The "Shell"): The best is truly waterproof (not just water-resistant) gear.

  • Bib-style rain pants are highly recommended because they allow kids to sit or crawl on wet ground without water seeping in at the waist.

  • One-piece suits (often called "Newt Suits" or "Muddy Buddies") are excellent for all ages (you will see some of our facilitators even wear them) as they provide gap-free protection.

2. Gear Up from Head to Toe

• The Best Boots: For the early spring and fall, look for insulated waterproof boots. During the warm summer days, tall rainboots should be your go-to. Ensure they aren't too tight; toes need room to wiggle to stay warm. But not too loose either because we don't want to be losing our boots in the mud.

• Wool Socks are Non-Negotiable: Wool socks are a Forest and Nature School essential. Unlike cotton, wool still insulates when wet and can be worn all year round.

• Waterproof Mittens: Once hands get cold, the fun often stops. Use waterproof or water-resistant mitts that fit over the cuffs of the rain jacket to keep drips out.

• Brimmed Hats: A hat with a brim (like a rain hat or even a baseball cap under a hood) helps keep raindrops out of your child's eyes.

3. Pack Smart for the "After-Rain"

Even with the best gear, water sometimes finds a way. Being prepared for the end of the day is just as important as the start.

• The "Extra Everything" Bag: Pack at least two full changes of clothes—including underwear and socks—in a sealed dry bag or Ziploc.

• Internal Warmth: On rainy days, kids burn more calories staying warm. Pack extra snacks and a Thermos with warm food like soup or noodles to warm them from the inside out.

• The Car Strategy: Keep a bin liner or a few old towels in the car. It makes the drive home much easier when you can wrap up a muddy "mud monster" before they hit the car seat!

A list of our favourite brands:

1. Boots: Bogs for fall, winter and spring. Any rainboot will do as long as they are tall.

2. Suits: We love Oaki wear but it tends to be on the more expensive side. CaliKids suits and MEC newt suits are also amazing.

3. 
   

   Mitts and rain hats: Reima makes some great waterproof mitts. Kombi also has a pair but we haven't tried them out yet. Calikids does sell a pair as well.