I guess as for the dress code you will have to defer to the guidelines of the church. Some are very strict, regardless of the weather.

I support you in asking the children what they would like to do, since you can't make them sing. Free will IS something God gave us, and many ppl are unable to fathom that concept. He never requires anyone to serve Him or love Him until we commit ourselves TO Him, it is our choice. God is omnipotent but He has given us free will. He is omniscent, and even though He knows how we will chooose, He still gives us a choice. I'm glad you are following Him in that respect. (Maybe you are seeing a bigger picture than the others.)

TC