December 20, 2006 7:37 PM
Shoes and socks - helping your toddler do it himself
Hi Barbara,My two year old is dying to put on his own shoes and socks. He tries and tries and often gets frustrated when the attempt fails. Its getting to be a struggle when "idooitmyself" takes a bit too long and we really have to go. Of course, I want to totally encourage him to dress himself. its very exciting! He can already put his pants on by himself. Any suggestions for shoes and socks?
Many thanks!
Jennifer
Mommy to Grace, my darling in heaven, Alex (2), and Sophia (3 mo).
Jennifer -
You definitely want to encourage your child when he wants to do things himself. This is what Maria Montessori called a sensitive period - and when the child's environment supports his efforts during each window of opportuinity, the child grows into a more joyful and confident human being.
Try getting a pair of shoes just a little too big at the second hand store. Give your child a slightly bigger pair of socks too.
Then let him practice at times when you're not getting ready to go somewhere, so there is no pressure on either of you.
These stages come and go so quickly! Take a picture to remember it by!
Posted in Montessori, Toddlers | Permalink
Comments
Yay! Thank you Barbara! I have just the pair of practice shoes :-)
Posted by: Jennifer | December 20, 2006 8:01 PM
My daughter, who is almost 6, still has issues with putting her socks on. Someone suggested the bigger sock thing, which works wonders! I also found socks that have no toe seams, which is another issue for her.
Having larger socks definitely makes things easier in my house!
Posted by: Linda | December 21, 2006 9:52 AM
My two and a half year old LOVES to dress herself. Mornings find her with her pants on backwards and her shirt inside out, and she MAYBE got a sock on before giving up, but usually she doesn't get much farther than her toes before asking for help. Her shoes are velcro closed, suede-like, dress-type shoes. They are very easy for her to get her feet in (unlike sneakers) and she can close the velcro herself. One of these days, she'll get the socks figured out!
Posted by: Jennie C. | December 21, 2006 10:35 AM
Sandals work well at this stage, too. My 4 year old still prefers sandals and unless it's snowing, I let her wear them w/socks.
Posted by: Marsha | December 21, 2006 1:08 PM
