Toddler Clothing Buying Guide

Children's clothing  sizes can be tricky. Toddler sizes go by the children's age and can be recognized by the "T" that follows the number. However, just because your child is 2 years old, doesn't mean she is going to fit in a 2T dress.  An average child will begin to fit into toddler clothing anytime between 18 to 24 months. Before then you'll need to shop for infant clothing.

Tips for buying clothes for your Toddler:

1. Know your child's height (in inches and centimeters) and weight (in pounds and kilograms) before making any purchases.
2. Purchase clothing with the tought that your child is going to get bigger, not smaller.
3. Look for durable and easy-care fabrics. The best options will be machine washable and not require ironing.
4. It's probably a better idea to stay away from expensive pieces of clothing. Toddlers will be all over the place and their clothes are bound to get ruined and dirty very quickly.

Other things to keep in mind:

• By age two, your child may have an opinion about their clothing. If possible, involve them in some of the clothes shopping. If the helped select the items, they will be more likely to get dressed without a battle.
• Toddlers  should begin to dress themselves. Clothing with easy-to-use zippers, snaps and large buttons will be less frustrating for toddlers than intricate and small fastenings and closures.
• If your child is attending preschool or daycare, you may want to sew labels  on his/her clothing to make identifying jackets, scarves and mittens a little easier.
• You may want to read the article on baby toys to reward your child after a day of shopping!

Now you are ready to get going.  Here are all the categories available for your toddler:

Easy Dressing Options
Bodysuits	Overalls	Two-Piece Sets	Dresses

Toddler Tops
Shirts	Sweaters	Jackets	Sweatshirts	Turtlenecks

Toddler Bottoms
Pants	Jeans	Shorts	Skirts

Toddlers Clothing for Any Occasion
Swimwear	Pajamas	Costumes	Suits	Fancy Toddler Dresses

Accessories
Shoes	Bibs	Socks	Hats, Scarves, and Gloves

Toddler Shoes and Socks

While experts say that it is best to hold off on shoes and socks for as long as possible, it is no secret that as babies begin to crawl and walk around, shoes and socks will be necessary. Here are some tips on how to make the best purchase possible:

• When?: Booties are a good idea for both infants and toddlers when it gets to the colder time of the year. However, socks and shoes shouldn't be purchased until the baby has started to crawl around. Babies' feet can actually handle the little scratching and rubbing of crawling, but it is a good idea to invest in some breatheable socks or shoes for the outdoors. Make sure the socks and shoes aren't tight though, as toes need room to move and grow.
• Nice and soft: It is important that the first couple of pairs of walking shoes you purchase have a thin sole so that the toddler can feel the ground they are walking on. The material needs to be soft, flexible, and breathable, and high tops should be avoided since it can hinder ankle movement and proper walking development. To check if you are buying the right size, make sure that your pinky can fit between the heel of your toddler's foot and the back of the shoe, and that there is approximately a thumbs width gap between the front of the shoe and your toddler's toes.
• Velcro vs. Lace-up: This is basically your own preference, however, keep in mind that velcro allows you to quickly remove and put shoes back on. Also, make sure that no matter which type of shoe you decide to purchase, to not tighten it too much.
• Be prepared: Toddler's feet grow quickly so don't expect one pair of shoes to last more than a couple of months. Be prepared to buy a new pair every three to six months and constantly check the condition of your toddler's shoes to make sure they are still in good condition

Additional Information:

• Baby Gap -- Good general size chart.
• About.com -- Tips for removing stains from clothing. After all, kids are going to get dirty.