Encouraging Your Child to Dress Themselves

by Elizabeth Lewis

It may feel like getting your child to dress themselves is an impossible feat. But we promise it only gets better! Here are a few tips to help make the learning process as easy as possible for both of you. 


Start with Removing Clothes 

Teaching your child how to take off their clothes properly should be the first step to helping them get dressed on their own. Since removing clothes is easier than putting them on, this should give them a boost of confidence which is key! There is also typically a lot less time pressure when it comes to getting undressed, which should help relax them. 


Keep It Simple

Don’t go for the gold on your first attempt. Make it simple for your kid by trying on things like elastic waisted pants or pull on t-shirts. Save snaps, zippers and buttons until their fine motor skills develop.

 

 

Sit Them Down

Whether on the floor or on a kids sized chair, have your child sit down to get dressed. Since they won’t have to focus on keeping their balance they can concentrate on dressing themselves.


Give Them Lots of Time

Make sure that you’re not practicing these skills with your child when you both need to rush out the door. Practice on days where there aren’t so many time constraints and there will be less pressure on the both of you!


Clothing Orientation

To teach your child what is the front and what is the back of tops, pants, skirts, or dresses, have them look for the tag!

 


Need More Ways to Encourage Your Child?

Let them pick out new outfits to get excited about. You can also find styles that may make it a little easier to dress themselves. Stop by The Plaid Giraffe today or shop online!

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