How to Make It Easier for Kids to Dress Themselves
For years, you planned their every outfit and helped them slip into their little shirts and pants. But now, your child is at the age where they want to feel more grown-up and dress themselves! This is a big milestone for their independence, and very exciting for them as they get to choose their own clothes.
This newfound freedom also comes with some challenges, though. Certain tasks, like managing zippers or tying shoelaces can be tricky for kids. How can you make it easier for your little one to dress themselves so they can have the freedom without the frustration?
Choose Snap Shirts Over Regular Buttons
Button-up shirts look adorable, but they’re tricky for small fingers. If you’re wondering whether button or pearl snap closures are better for kids, the answer is usually pearl snap closures. Unlike buttons, which require precise threading through tiny holes, snaps just press together with a satisfying click.
Why Kids Love Snap Shirts
Your child can line up snaps and push them closed without the fine motor skills that traditional buttons demand. Plus, they come apart easily when it’s time to change clothes.
Pick Elastic Waistbands
Belts and complex waistbands turn getting dressed into a puzzle. Elastic waistbands stretch to fit your child’s body and eliminate the need for buckles or complicated closures.
Elastic > Belts & Buckles
Shorts, pants, and skirts with elastic waists slide on quickly. Your child won’t struggle with threading belts through loops or figuring out which direction buckles face.
Skip the Shoelaces
Tying shoes requires coordination that many kids haven’t developed yet. Velcro straps, slip-on shoes, and elastic laces solve this problem instantly.
The Benefits of Each
Velcro creates a secure fit with just a press and pull motion. Slip-on sneakers eliminate laces entirely. Elastic laces stay tied permanently while still allowing your child to put shoes on and take them off independently.
Use Larger Zippers with Easy Pulls
Tiny zippers frustrate everyone, including adults. Look for jackets and pants with larger zipper pulls that little hands can grip easily.
Look for Decorative Pulls
Some brands add decorative pulls or rings to their zippers. These give your child something substantial to hold onto while pulling the zipper up or down.
Label the Inside of Clothes
Kids often put shirts on backwards or inside out. Small fabric labels sewn into the back of shirts help your child identify which way clothes should face.
A Tip
You can also use fabric markers to draw simple arrows or write “back” on clothing tags. This visual cue helps your child orient their clothes correctly before putting them on.
A Smoother Morning Routine
If you want to make it easier for your kids to dress themselves, try some of these swaps! They’ll appreciate being able to get ready without dealing with complicated fasteners that make them want to give up.
Photos – Anastasia Shuraeva & Karola G
