Getting Dressed
Here's What To Do
1
Encourage your child as they get dressed independently.
2
Demonstrate how to put on the clothes. For example, show them how to button or zip up their clothes. Then, encourage them to finish buttoning or zipping independently.
3
Your child can also have fun dressing a cushion! Put clothes on the cushion and secure it by buttoning one button or zipping it up a little so they can finish.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Wiggle your fingers and open and close them while you smile together to help your child get excited about getting dressed.
E
Engage:
- “You can choose some clothes you would like to wear.”
- “I know you can dress yourself too!”
E
Encourage:
- Offer tips and encouragement. “You are trying so hard! Hold the zipper with your fingers and pull up.”
- Remind your child of a time they kept persisting when they were learning something new. “You kept trying and practicing when you were learning to ___. Let’s keep trying, I know you can do it!”
R
Reflect:
- “What is your favorite thing to wear? How do you put it on?”
Not quite ready?
Start with clothes that are easier to put on first, such as pants that pull up and down.
Ready for more?
Have a family fashion show! Your child can help everyone to zip up their jackets, tie their shoes or bows, and button up their shirts!
As your child masters this skill...
They will independently demonstrate hand-eye control with self-help tasks.