Wouldn’t it be great if we could wear Velcro shoes forever? They’re easy to use and eliminate the hassle of laces. However, laced shoes are a reality we all face, and learning to tie them is an important skill for children, as it helps develop their coordination. Teaching this skill can be a challenge, especially if your little one gets frustrated. But don’t worry — you can turn the learning process into a fun game!
Many kids struggle with the sequence of steps involved in tying shoelaces. As parents, it’s understandable that we might find it tricky too since we’ve tied our shoes countless times and have committed the steps to memory. It’s essential to keep this in mind while teaching your child.
If you’re unsure where to begin, here are some engaging methods to make learning to tie shoes a fun experience.
How to Teach Kids to Tie Their Shoelaces (Beginner Methods)
While there are several ways to tie shoelaces, the popular “bunny ears” method is a great starting point for kids. It’s important to celebrate any progress, as children thrive on the encouragement and sense of achievement.
For some kids, it’s easier to practice with the shoe off their foot. One effective trick is to position a shoe at eye level. Start by crossing the laces, then loop them and pull tight. Instead of pulling the laces tight, leave a small circle in the middle. Pass each lace through the opposite side’s circle and pull tight. This might not be the traditional method, but it can help kids get comfortable with laces.
The “bunny ears” method is another effective technique. After forming the initial knot, create a loop (ear) with each lace, cross them, and pull them through. To make it more entertaining, consider adding a character or story to the process, as children have vivid imaginations.
When Should Kids Learn to Tie Shoes?
Most children are ready to learn to tie their shoelaces by age five, as they have developed enough coordination by then. It’s beneficial to use thicker laces for younger children. Practicing on a shoebox with holes for laces can also help them gain confidence before tackling their shoes.
What Songs Help with Learning to Tie Shoelaces?
Music plays an essential role in learning. A catchy rhyme can help make the “bunny ears” method easier. Try using, “Bunny ears, bunny ears jumped into the hole,” while demonstrating the steps. Parents might also recognize the fun shoe-tying song from LBB Kids, which can be a great resource as well.
Shoe-Tying Tips and Tricks
To ease the stress of tying shoes, consider these techniques:
- Add dots to your child’s laces to indicate where to hold them for a better grip.
- Use a clothespin to secure the laces temporarily, allowing your child to focus on the technique.
- Choose shoes with thick laces, as they are easier for small hands to manipulate.
- If your child is left-handed, sit across from them while teaching to make it easier for them to follow along.
- Using two different colored laces can help your child distinguish between the movements needed for each lace.
Catchy Poems and Songs for Shoe Tying
Here are some fun poems to help your child master tying their shoes:
Bunny Poem #1
Bunny ears, Bunny ears, playing by a tree.
Criss-crossed the tree, trying to catch me.
Bunny ears, Bunny ears, jumped into the hole,
Popped out the other side, beautiful and bold.
Bunny Poem #2
Over, under, around and through,
Meet Mr. Bunny Rabbit, pull and through.
Teepee Tying
Build a teepee, come inside,
Close it tight so we can hide,
Over the mountain and around we go,
Here’s my arrow and here’s my bow!
“Tie Your Shoes Song” by CoComelon
Make the tree — Cross the branches
Loop the loop — pull tight!
Bunny ears, bunny ears
Playing by a tree!
Crisscross the tree
Trying to catch me!
Bunny ears, bunny ears
Jumped into a hole!
Popped out the other side
Their ears in a bow!
These engaging methods will help your little one become a pro at tying shoes in no time!
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In summary, teaching kids to tie their shoes can be a fun and rewarding experience. By using engaging methods, encouraging progress, and incorporating music and creativity, you can turn this skill into a delightful adventure.