How to Teach Kids to Tie Shoes

Photo by Allen Mas on Pexels

Photo by Allen Mas on Pexels

One, two, buckle my shoe… if only it were that easy. Among the many milestones our little ones accomplish in their early years, shoe tying is one of the greatest feats. Not just because it is helpful and appreciated by the lower backs of moms and dads everywhere, but because it’s such a pivotal moment in a child’s development. Acquiring this life skill shows cognitive development and patience as well as strides in dexterity and fine motor skills, all highlighting a child’s mental and physical growth. From lacing to granny knots, there’s quite a bit for children to grasp when mastering technique. But shoe tying tips are a-plenty, and when your preschooler is ready, having a plan in place to teach them the required skills necessary for becoming shoelace experts could get them out of Velcro forever.


Photo by EVG Culture on Pexels

Photo by EVG Culture on Pexels

Left Lace/Right Lace: What You Need for Shoe Tying Success

Figuring out just the right shoe tying method for your little one can help you get on the right track from the get-go. Every kid is different in terms of what approach will click. It’s wise to get them excited about taking on this new task so that it is perceived as an enjoyable and fun learning activity versus a challenging chore that may be frustrating and hard. Success may be found by simply picking the right shoe for practicing. Perhaps making the experience a game instead of an assignment will ease the sense of struggle. No matter the chosen method, make sure as a seasoned pro, you exude empathy and support. Your child will be able to tie their shoes at some point and when they do, they will surely strut their stuff in a whole new way.


Photo by Allen Mas on Pexels

Photo by Allen Mas on Pexels

Tried and True Methods

These instructional videos will help ensure your kiddos hands aren’t tied when it comes to their shoelaces. Keep the knots out of anxious bellies and on shoes where they belong.

1. Bunny Ears Method

2. Cheerio Method

Lyndsay Camins

Lyndsay Camins is a freelance writer based in sunny Southern California. Mother to two humans and one furball, she is an avid cook, complete workout-aholic, and self-described arm candy to her equal parts loving and patient husband. A former force in the fashion industry, Lyndsay switched gears in her middle life to pursue a career in writing so that her 3am notebook scribbles might have an opportunity to be shared with the world. She will write for anyone, anywhere, at anytime for the sake and true love of the written word.

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