This well-known Patons/Beehive pattern calls for a worsted weight yarn (Sayelle) on 4.5 mm needles. (Publishing date doesnt appear on attend. Styles sort of show the era.)
For deeper rib around face (where pattern starts), use 5 mm.
For warmth for children, start with wool blend vs 100% acrylic. Revert to tighter gauge of 4.5 mms.
For neck ribbing, need warm, so stay with 4.5s. To knit in round (and avoid neck seam), divide rib st over 3-4 needles at this point. Orient them with half across front at face. This will allow for seamless split when begin dickie front.
Knit neck rib to about 4 ins. Split st evenly between front and back. Place back st on stitch holders. Knit front to 5 ins. C/off. Knit back st to same length.
Crochet around edge of flaps so that they lie flat.
For dk weight yarn (like the floral/acryl), knit on 5.5 and 5 mms. This is a more decoration weight or under hood weight for child anyway.
Adult - This gauge should work in this yarn for adults as well. Add 2 - 3 rows in non-increase or decrease sections top of head. Longer interval in back of head section (so 12 rows b4 first, 6 rows between next decreases.)
For floral - try to maximize floral bands in non-rib runs.
