How To Teach A Toddler To Tie Shoes

Not all toddlers are ready to tackle the challenge of tying their own shoes--according to Family Fun magazine, many children don't develop the manual dexterity needed to manipulate their shoelaces until they're 5 to 7 years old. Some toddlers, however, may be quicker to develop those skills than others. If you have a toddler who can comfortably manipulate small toys, such as building bricks or crayons, your toddler may be ready to learn how to tie her shoes.

Step 1

Show your child how you tie your own shoelaces several times before sitting down to teach him how to tie his own laces. Move slowly, and exaggerate each of your movements.

Step 2

Choose shoes with thick, not slippery laces that will be easy for your child to manipulate. Opt for laces in a color that contrasts with the color of the shoe so they are easy to see.

Step 3

Try different methods. Some toddlers learn best by watching and copying your movements; others do better if they have easy-to-remember steps or a story to guide them through the process. Tell the classic "bunny ears--bunny runs around a tree--bunny runs into the hole--bunny comes out of the hole" story, or make up your own.

Step 4

Don't push if your child isn't responsive. Be patient. Drop the project for a few days or weeks, then bring it back at another time.

Tips and Warnings

If your child is confused by what part of the shoelace goes where, color or dye half the lace so that it's a different color. Your toddler will be able to see how the two sides come together to form knots. If your child is having trouble tying her own shoes, consider giving her a bigger adult shoe to practice with. You could also attach laces to a sheet of cardboard for practice so that it's easy for your toddler to visually isolate the knot. Most toddlers will have a hard time tying laces and will need to try it many times before they get it right. Be sure your toddler understands that she's working on something that's difficult for most kids her age and that trying is part of the process and something to be proud of. Praise her for the parts she gets right, and encourage her when she's struggling with a complicated step.