Winter in Wisconsin is no joke! Even in March, snow covers the ground, and outdoor play requires full winter gear: snow pants, coats, boots, mittens, and hats. If you live in a snowy region, you know the drill. Perhaps you’ve said, “Snow pants first!” countless times. A winter clothing visual schedule can make all the difference in helping children master putting on winter wear. That’s why I created my Snow Pants First Printable Sequence Chart and am sharing it with you! It’s designed to help preschoolers prepare for snowy adventures independently.

Why a Winter Clothing Sequence Chart is Helpful
The Challenge of Winter Gear
Dressing eight preschoolers for outdoor play is no small feat! The process can be overwhelming for children, with multiple steps to follow and gear to layer in a specific order. Without guidance, frustration often follows.
A Visual Solution
Visual aids help children break down complex tasks into manageable steps. My chart provides a clear, step-by-step sequence for dressing in winter gear. This simple tool:
- Builds confidence
- Supports independence
- Reduces frustration
How to Use the Snow Pants First Sequence Chart
Easy Steps to Get Started
- Print the Chart: Download the chart (link at the bottom of the page).
- Laminate (Optional): Protect the chart and make it last longer.
- Display Prominently: Hang it near your closet or cubbies.
- Introduce the Chart: Show children how to follow the sequence and talk through each step.
Pro Tip: Add a Chant
Chanting helps children remember the order. Try:
Snow pants, boots, jacket, hat, gloves!
This simple, rhythmic chant turns a daunting process into a fun group activity.
Snow Pants First Printable Sequence Chart
Teaching Children to Put on Outerwear: Why the Order Matters
The Snow Pants First System
The sequence chart is designed for practicality:
- Snow Pants: They must go on first to avoid starting over.
- Boots: Easier to bend and manage before adding bulk.
- Jacket: Perfect for the flip-over-the-head method.
- Hat: Last before putting on gloves so it isn’t forgotten.
- Gloves: Always last to allow for zipping and tucking.
This method minimizes frustration and ensures success.
Teaching Independence
Encourage children to look at the chart, think through the process, and attempt each step independently. Older children can be role models for younger ones, and you can help with tricky tasks like zippers or mitten tucks.
Snow Books to Pair with the Lesson
Read a book, then introduce the sequence chart. Talk about what the children will do each time they get dressed for outdoor play. Practice the song or chant.
Some engaging options include:
- The Jacket I Wear in the Snow by Shirley Neitzel
- The Mitten by Jan Brett
- Curious About Snow by Gina Shaw
- Froggy Gets Dressed by Jonathan London
- What Can You See In Winter? by Sian Smith
- There was a Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow by Lucille Colandro
Last update on 2025-02-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Download the Snow Pants First Printable Sequence Chart
Get your free copy to use at home or in the classroom. Help children master the art of winter dressing while fostering independence and confidence.
DOWNLOAD THE WINTER GEAR CHART
Use a copy in your classroom or home.
Winter gear doesn’t have to be a struggle. With a visual chart, a fun chant, and a little patience, your group will be ready to conquer the snow in no time.
trudy
Sunday 4th of December 2022
May I please have a copy of Snow Pants First Printable Sequence Chart
victoria
Tuesday 22nd of December 2020
thanks for posting this!! I've been looking for something like this to help get my kids dressed!! (and keep them dressed lol)