A laptop screen shows 4 kids on a video call.

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Should Kids Follow a Dress Code at Home?

November 30, 2020

Schools in Springfield, Illinois, don’t allow students to wear pajamas in the classroom. Now that rule applies to kids’ kitchens and living rooms too!

Springfield public schools have asked kids to follow a dress code while on video calls from home. Supporters of the dress code say that it might help kids focus on their lessons, not on what their classmates are wearing. But other people are against the dress code. They think it’s unfair to tell kids what to wear in their own homes.

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 as you would if you were in school can help with that.

Plus, keeping a normal morning routine of getting dressed for school helps students focus. Otherwise, some might just wake up and get on their laptops while still drowsy.

Dress codes also prevent kids from wearing shirts with images that can distract or upset their classmates.

My classmates’ 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.

Finally, letting students stay in their pajamas could help parents because they wouldn’t have to do laundry as often.