Tuesday Teach 'ems: Putting on shoes

Toddlers crave independence. Their liberal use of "Mine!" and the phrase "Do it self!" are evidence. Parents can help instill confidence in their children, not through over-generous praise, but by teaching their kids to be self-sufficient.

Young toddlers can put on their own shoes. To make that process easier,

1. buy shoes that are easy to get on (slip-ons or velcro closures)
2. let your toddler practice with some shoes that are a few sizes too big (hand-me-downs or shoes from resale shops are great for this practice)
3. demonstrate for your child how to put her shoes on herself by sitting behind her and doing putting her shoes on her in slow, deliberate steps
4. give her time -- she's not going to do it as quickly as you will for awhile. Use those couple of minutes while she's putting on her shoes to get your purse or diaper bag ready to go.

Here's a picture of Caroline at about 20 months putting on her shoes. See how proud she is!