I buy and I request oversized clothing for my kids. I do so for a number of reasons. As many of you know, I don't do much without solid reasoning, even if it's reasoning that's deemed eccentric by other standards. So, according to my "at least 5 reasons rule," here are six reasons for bigger clothing: 1)It is pragmatic. A coat too big might just last an additional year or even two. 2) The kids seem little in bigger clothing. I don't have to come to grips every day that this time in my life with these littles is truly fleeting. I mean, really, I can't just hug and giggle with them alll day long. We've got to get out the door and denial is a helpful and under-rated tool. 3) It's easier to ask and shop for bigger clothing. If a gift from a loved one doesn't fit now, it will surely fit later. No need to worry about trans-atlantic returns. 4) Larger clothing is protective. G trips, skids on the macadam, but the only thing threatened in her puffer coat are duck feathers that have already been plucked. 5) Bigger clothing is warmer. More body parts are covered, which is helpful when mittens are frequently refused, misplaced, or gnawed on in defiance. 6) Bigger clothing makes room for appropriate layering. Warmth is key in the wet moorlands.
Lately, I've been thinking it's time for me to stop. The kids always look a little extra out-of-sorts floating around in their clothes and Bug said to me the other day when I bought a pair of wellies in the right size, "Hey, good job Mum! These actually fit!" Sigh. It is a low-day in mothering when your son chooses to opt for the "positive re-enforcement" route regarding parental rearing. He's been waiting 5 years to say something like that. What a patient soul...
