You might not remember what it was like to be a kid and not know how to perform basic, everyday tasks like tying your shoelaces. But for young kids, it can be tough to live in a world where they have to ask help for everything. That's why it's important to teach kids day-to-day skills, and do it in a way that's simple and easy for them to understand.
Step 1
Sit next to the child while wearing a pair of laced shoes. Use laces that are long and thick so he can see better.
Step 2
Instruct the child to untie her shoes or give her a pair of shoes with long, thick, untied laces if she is wearing shoes without them.
Step 3
Instruct the child to mimic your movements as you demonstrate how to tie the shoelaces. Tell him to stop at any time if he has any questions or doesn't understand a step.
Step 4
Tie a simple knot by crossing the two laces over each other, pulling one end under and through and tightening. Have the child do the same and make any necessary corrections as he does.
Step 5
Make a loop with one of the laces and hold it in your left hand. Use the fingers on your left hand to help make a loop with your right hand. Hold the loops in each hand and wait for the child to finish the step.
Step 6
Tie another simple knot with the two loops in the same way as the first knot, but this time keeping the loops intact. Watch the child as he performs this step and help him if he has any trouble.
Step 7
Tighten the loop knot and, if necessary, create a second simple knot with the loops to double-knot the shoes. Explain the need for a double knot and help the child create one on his shoe laces.
Step 8
Instruct the child to tie the other shoe all on his own while you watch and offer instructions and corrections. Have him untie both shoes and do them both on his own while you watch and help.
Things You'll Need
- Adult shoes
- Child shoes
- Thick, long shoelaces
