We are in the depths of February, and I’m at the point of winter where it feels like warmth will never return to Pittsburgh—that this is life forever. The cold is endless, the gray skies are permanent, and my kids are cycling through the same three cozy sweaters on repeat. But good news! I see my calendar alert for March 1st that says: go through warm weather clothes under beds, and I am reminded that yes, spring will come—and it’s time to see what we have and what we need.
A Quick Solidarity Check-in
Because let’s be real: clothing children is a massive responsibility. They never stop growing, they always need something, and somehow, there are still moments when they have nothing to wear despite the overflowing dresser drawers. So if you’re feeling like this is an endless task, you’re not alone. You are amazing for managing it however you are able to in this current season.
Here’s How I Do It:
1. Calendar Reminders Are Your Best Friend
Set up a recurring calendar reminder for quarterly clothing check-ins. This takes the mental load off and ensures you’re staying ahead of the season instead of scrambling at the last minute when the first warm day hits and no one has shorts that fit.
2. The Notes App Checklist
I keep a simple note on my phone for each child with their sizes and what they have for each season. When I pick up a bathing suit in September or find a pair of sandals someone will love, I add it to the list. This prevents me from overbuying and makes sure that my kids actually wear the things I’ve collected over time.
A quick note here: keep their current size of clothing and shoe in here too. Makes it easy to remember especially in busy seasons.
3. The Seasonal “Try-On” Day
Before I even think about shopping, I pull out last year’s warm-weather stash (which, in our house is under their beds). We do a fashion show. What still fits? What doesn’t? What can be passed down to siblings or set aside to bring to Dandelion Kids? The goal is to fill in the gaps rather than blindly buying a whole new wardrobe every season.
4. Embrace the “Buy Ahead” Strategy
This isn’t for everyone, but I love buying ahead when I find good secondhand deals—especially on high-quality basics. A well-loved Patagonia fleece, a solid pair of sneakers, or that perfect cozy hoodie? If it’s in the next size up and a great deal, I grab it, make a note of it in my notes app and put in the too big bin under the bed.
5. Pass It On, Shop Secondhand
One of my favorite things about running Dandelion Kids is seeing clothes get a second life. Kids outgrow things so fast, and it’s a great feeling to pass along what doesn’t work anymore—and find what you need in return. If you haven’t done a resale shop drop-off yet, let this be your sign that it’s worth it!
Remember: You’re Doing Great
It’s easy to feel like we’re always one step behind when it comes to keeping kids dressed for the right season, the right size, the right weather. But you are doing it. Whether you have an organized system or you’re just winging it each season, you are showing up, figuring it out, and making sure your kids are clothed. And that is enough.
Spring will come. The sun will shine. And when it does, you’ll be ready.
Dandelion Kids Blog 