Back to school & ‘easy’ dressing

With the new school year about to begin, a number of UK high street retailers are offering uniform staples with ‘adaptive’ features useful for all children.

For any child, getting dressed can sometimes be a frustrating, long process as they learn to master the skills needed - from motor skills, to co-ordination, balance, perception, and being able to tell right from left. For children with mobility, dexterity or sensory needs the daily dressing struggle can become hugely stressful so the availability of uniform staples such as polo shirts, trousers, shorts and socks designed with a few practical adjustments or additions to make dressing easier can make a huge difference.

MadeForMums 2023 survey of school uniforms lists adjustable waistbands, non-scratchy materials and ‘easy to put on’ (zip-free/button-free) in the 5 most important features as voted for by all parents, and ‘easy’ seems to be the common theme for retailers across these adapted ranges:

Marks & Spencer (M & S) Easy Dressing School Collection

Sainsbury Dress with Ease Range

George at Asda Easy On Easy Wear Range

Next Dressing Made Easy range

These collections are designed to look just like the rest of the main school clothing on offer, and all at similar pricing.

Features that may be useful for all children, and encourage independent dressing include hidden Velcro to replace buttons and elasticated waists (based on reviews parents love these features for PE and swim days). More specific product adjustments designed for children with sensory issues or conditions such as dyspraxia include trousers and shorts without back pockets, items designed with soft seams/seam free, and without scratchy labels at the neck or waist.

Retailers state that they’ve undertaken extensive research with customers and charities to ensure these uniform pieces are fit for purpose, and reviews and feedback from parents seem overwhelmingly positive. With the UK trailing the US in adaptive clothing ranges for children, hopefully these easy dressing collections will evolve and expand to include a wider choice of styles and features for all children faced with self-dressing challenges.