Pros & Cons of Not Wearing Uniforms in School

School uniforms are not made for everyone.

The wearing of school uniforms ignites a hot debate among parents, students, academics and school administrators. On either side of the issue are valid arguments, each backed by evidence, but no one seems to agree on which is better. When choosing a school for your children, the use of a uniform might be an important factor for you in trying to determine what's best for your child.

Work vs. Play

Some think that not wearing a school uniform will only encourage a child to approach school too lightly instead of taking it seriously. Wearing the uniform becomes a signal that he is about to go to school, just as parents dress up for work, they argue. However, teaching kids that there is a time to "work" when in uniform as opposed to reserving "play" for when they're wearing normal clothes may make them think that school isn't meant to be enjoyed. Especially for those who have learning difficulties or may be bullied in school, the lack of uniforms would encourage more positive associations with school. According to this argument, not wearing a uniform could encourage a child to concentrate on the task at hand, be less stressed when getting dressed in the morning and learn to enjoy going to school.

Discipline

A popular argument in favor of school uniforms is that uniforms help maintain school discipline. Yet, this argument ignores the fact that discipline is something that a child needs to be taught inside and outside of a school setting. Not wearing a uniform, this argument asserts, a child would understand that she needs to be on her good behavior at all times, regardless of the setting she finds herself or who is in charge at the time.

Cost

Some schools will tell you that uniforms are a bargain because they are less expensive than commercial clothes, are made for multiple washes and last longer, and that they can be used as hand-me-downs between siblings. Yet, what the schools think of as being affordable does not necessarily take into account each family's budget -- for some, it may be too expensive. Hand-me-down uniforms are not applicable if your children go to different schools.

Self-Expression

The absence of uniforms encourages a child to express himself and show his individuality through his various outfits. Even if schools have limitations on what can be worn at school, such as an interdiction of branded clothing, children who get to choose what to wear get an opportunity to show who they are through their clothing. For artistic children, this is a great opportunity to show their creativity.

References

• The school uniform movement and what it tells us about American education; David L. Brunsma; 2004; 263 pp.