Four kids smile while on a video conference call

ViewStock/Getty Images (top left girl); Zohaib Hussain/Getty Images (bottom right girl; Debate photos courtesy of families

Should Kids Follow a Dress Code at Home?

October 19, 2020

Students in Springfield, Illinois, public schools aren’t allowed to wear pajamas or slippers in the classroom. Now that rule also applies to living rooms and kitchens! The Springfield school district is asking kids to follow its dress code while on video calls from home. And many private schools require kids to wear uniforms while learning remotely.

Springfield school officials say their goal is to create a classroom environment for remote learners. Supporters of the dress code point out that it could help kids focus on the lessons, not on what their friends are wearing.

But some parents think it’s unfair to tell kids what to wear in their own homes. Plus, they say, if kids do their work, what difference does it make if they’re in pajamas? It’s what you learn that counts, not what you wear.

Here’s what two of our readers think.

It’s important for kids who are learning remotely to feel like they are in an actual classroom. Following a dress code like you would if you were in the school building can help with that.

Plus, getting dressed each morning helps students focus. Otherwise, some kids might roll out of bed in their pajamas and head straight to their laptops, still drowsy.

A dress code also cuts down on T-shirts with offensive graphics, which can be distracting.

Clothing isn’t a distraction to me. When I’m learning from home, I mostly look at my teacher’s video feed, not at what my friends are wearing.

Also, I find it easier to focus when I’m wearing comfortable clothes. As long as your outfit doesn’t offend anyone, you should be allowed to wear what you want.

Allowing kids to stay in pajamas could help parents too. They won’t have as much laundry to do so they can spend more time with family.