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Welcome to ODSS Magazine - your guide to raising kids who stay outside longer. From practical gear advice and layering tips to seasonal how-tos and outdoor inspiration, we help families make the most of every kind of weather. Because when kids are comfortable outdoors, they play longer, explore more, and grow stronger.
Gear for Every Forecast
Featured Guides

How to Dress Kids in Changing Weather Without Overthinking It
Simple layering strategies that keep kids comfortable from chilly mornings to muddy afternoons - no second-guessing required.
Popular Guides
Seasonal Right Now

The Magic of Mud: Why Getting Dirty Is Good for Kids
How messy outdoor play builds resilience, confidence, and creativity and why it matters more than you think.
Published February 27, 2026
Swimwear Color Safety- Bright Colors Work
Bright colors can make kids easier to see in pools and lakes. Learn which shades improve visibility and safety.
Tick Checks Made Simple for Parents
A simple step-by-step guide to finding ticks quickly and protecting kids after outdoor adventures.
ODSS Magazine
- by Jenny Lonnstam
What Kids Need for Snow, Slush, and Wet Winter Days
Snow at drop-off, slush by lunchtime, and muddy ground by pickup? This guide helps Northeast families dress kids for cold, wet conditions that change throughout the day. It also applies to similar weather in Great Lakes and mountain communities. Choose waterproof protection and adjust warmth for the forecast, activity, and time outside.
- by Jenny Lonnstam
What Kids Need for Warm, Rainy Days Outdoors
Warm rain, muddy playgrounds, and humid afternoons call for waterproof protection with lightweight clothing underneath. This guide helps Southern families choose rainwear for active outdoor days, with extra layers reserved for cooler conditions. Start with what your child already owns, then adjust for the forecast and your school’s requirements.
- by Jenny Lonnstam
What Kids Need for Cold Mornings and Warmer Afternoons
Cold at drop-off, warmer by lunchtime, and windy or wet before pickup? Start with waterproof outerwear and layers your child can add or remove. This guide helps families in Mountain and Mid-Atlantic regions prepare for changing outdoor-school days, using what they already own and filling only the gaps. Adjust for your local forecast, elevation, and school’s clothing requirements.
- by Jenny Lonnstam
For Kids Outside in Steady Rain
Wet, cool, and unpredictable, the outdoors in Washington, Oregon, and Northern California calls for reliable, waterproof gear that can handle long days outside in the rain.
- by Jenny Lonnstam
What Kids Need for Warm, Sunny Days Outdoors
Sunny outdoor-school days call for lightweight clothing, practical sun coverage, and comfortable shoes. This guide helps Southwest families prepare for warm, dry conditions, with an optional light layer for cooler mornings or changing weather. It also works for summer days in cooler regions. Start with what your child already owns and check your school’s clothing requirements.
- by Jenny Lonnstam
What Kids Need for Long, Cold Winter Days Outdoors
Long winters, deep cold, snow, wind, and wet conditions call for more than one heavy coat. The most reliable approach is a flexible layering system that keeps kids warm, dry, and comfortable through changing conditions and long days outside.
- by Jenny Lonnstam
How to Choose the Right Mid Layer for Kids
A good mid layer does one simple but important job: it holds onto body heat while still allowing kids to move comfortably.
It's the layer that helps regulate temperature throughout the day. As activity levels, weather, and temperatures change, a quality mid layer keeps warmth close to the body without adding unnecessary bulk.
A well-chosen fleece or insulating layer helps children stay comfortable so they can focus on exploring, learning, and playing outside.
- by Jenny Lonnstam
(Re)PLAY - Trade in & Shop Pre-adventured Gear
Kids outgrow their outerwear fast, but that doesn’t mean the adventure has to end. With Outdoor School Shop (Re)PLAY Pre-Adventured Gear, it’s easy to keep high-quality kids outdoor gear in play and out of the landfill.
A simple, sustainable solution for growing kids:
- Trade in kids’ outerwear they’ve outgrown
- Shop high-quality used kids outdoor gear
- Keep durable jackets, rain gear, and snow pants in use longer
Because well-made gear deserves more than one season of muddy trails, rainy recess, and snowy school days.
Every piece is ready for real outdoor play:
- Cleaned and inspected for quality
- Fully functional and adventure-ready
- Sustainably recirculated to reduce waste
- Hassle-free returns for parent peace of mind
It’s an easy way to save money, reduce waste, and make outdoor school prep feel simple — while giving great gear a second and third season of adventure.
- by Jenny Lonnstam
- by Outdoor School Shop
How to Keep Summer Simple for Kids
- by Outdoor School Shop
The Best Free Earth Day Activities for Kids!
- by Outdoor School Shop
- by Outdoor School Shop
Essential Gear for Your Child's Ski Adventure: A Complete Checklist
- by Jenny Lonnstam
- by Outdoor School Shop
Choosing the Right Swimwear Colors for Pools and Lakes
- by Outdoor School Shop
The Magic of Mud: Why Getting Dirty Is Good for Kids
- by Outdoor School Shop
Tick Season is Here – Stay Safe with Tick Protection
- by Outdoor School Shop
How to Pick the Best Raincoat for Your Child





























