The first years of our children's development are full of milestones, because they enjoy firsts in everything, as they are discovering the world around them. For example, their first steps, their first words... And all these achievements have an optimal moment for each little one, for example, choosing their clothes and putting them on. That's why we wonder when the child should learn to dress himself. Let's answer this question.
Find out when a child should learn to dress him/herself
It is important to emphasize that each child's development is unique. However, certain milestones are reached at similar ages. In terms of dressing themselves, although with some adult help, a good time is at two years of age. There they already have sufficient capacity, adequate motor skills and a claim to independence to function according to their own needs.
Although the ability to dress himself begins at about 24 months of age, it must always be remembered that in these first attempts he will need help from an adult.
In addition, in the early tests of dressing autonomy, it is common for the child to find it easier to put on a sock or coat, or to pull down his or her pants.
In any case, we have to be very patient, be there to lend a hand and let the little one do it. We will act as guides and participate only when indispensable.
Undress first?
It is usually easier for children to undress. That's why it's also a good idea for them to first learn to take off their clothes on their own.
Undressing is easier for your little one. Since his gross and fine motor skills are still limited, he will have to start working on the simplest of garments, such as pants, shoes or socks.
In this way, little by little, we can teach him to improve his skills until he is able to undress completely by himself.
The simplest garments first
Then, little by little, he will be able to put on his clothes, starting with the easiest things. Generally, it is less difficult for him to pull up his pants. Then, the most complicated thing will be the shoelaces, whose handling ability does not improve until about 3 years of age.
Respect for rhythms
Obviously, as adults, we will give guidelines and help when necessary, but above all we will be patient and respect the rhythms of each child. The fact that it takes them more or less time to dress themselves does not make them better or worse. Each child has their own abilities and talents and this does not have to be one of them. Even if their process is slower, sooner or later they all end up doing it naturally.
Tips for helping your child to dress him/herself
Let's take a look at some useful tips to help your child dress himself and learn quickly:
- Don't delay. The sooner you start, the faster you will succeed. But we must not insist too much either. It is a natural process that cannot become a source of stress and anxiety for the child.
- Don't push. So, no pressure. Sooner or later he will get there. So, as adults, we will be empathetic, understanding and patient guides.
- Let's praise their successes. So that they don't give up and feel proud of their achievements, we will praise them after their first triumphs.
- Simple clothes. Obviously, we will let him wear simple clothes that are easy to put on and take off. Let's opt for Velcro, for example, rather than laces or buttons.
- Establish routines. That is, on a daily basis, the child will make the effort until it is internalized as a habit or routine.
- Daily attempts. If we have made the decision, we must continue until the end, until the child succeeds. It is necessary to be constant and patient and not to finish the task on the part of the adult because of haste.
- Choice of clothing. In principle, in order to make them easy to put on and take off, the parents will be the ones to choose the child's outfit.
- Use of games. Singing, using games and other tools can be useful for the child to improve these skills. In addition, imitation can also work well, so we will become their example.
If you want more useful tips, remember that in Logos Nursery School, nursery school in Las Rozas we have an expert and professional pedagogical cabinet in this and many other topics.
