PRACTICE TYING SHOES WITH LACING SHAPES
LACE PRACTICE ON CARDBOARD LACING SHAPES
How cool is this fun little recycled DIY toy?! You know me, these are my go-to’s when the kids need something fun and intricate to do! Fun, educational, easy to make, and basically FREE! Does this activity get any better?
This at-home toddler activity is great to practice lacing, shoe lace tying, shapes, and fine motor skills all in one! I mean, in my humble opinion, this is one of the best activities I have up my sleeve. This idea popped into my mind after my friend Chantal did a Target run and got some lace shapes. This is a recycled, and free alternative! Come on, give it a go! I promise you’ll have a world of fun, and so will your little one, all while developing a wonderful skill.
MATERIALS:
Cardboard
INSTRUCTIONS:
Draw shapes on the piece of cardboard
Cut out the shapes using the x acto knife.
Hole punch around the outer rim of the shapes.
Use shoe laces to lace the shapes using different techniques.
How to Practice Shoe Tying
Practicing shoe lace tying is the key to mastering the skill and building independence. Here are some really helpful tips to make it easier:
Practice with both hands: Get your little one to work on using both hands to tie the shoe lace. This helps develop coordination and muscle memory for when they’re tying shoes quickly.
Break it down into easy steps: Instead of trying to get your child to tie the shoe in one go, break the process into smaller steps, such as crossing the laces, making loops, and pulling through. This makes it less overwhelming and easier to master.
Practice on some shoes when ready: Try to get your little one practicing on different types of shoes or different surface types, like a flat surface and a shoe that's on a foot, to simulate real-life situations where your kiddo will be tying shoes.
Set a timer: Once your little one is comfortable, time them to practice tying faster. This will help them build speed while keeping the knot secure.
Let your child teach someone else: Teaching someone else how to tie their shoes can reinforce your child’s skills and help them notice where they may need improvement.
Repeat the process often: The more your kiddo can practice, the more automatic the process becomes. Consider asking them to spend a few minutes each day just practicing.
Try the “Bunny Ears” method: This simple and visual technique involves making loops with the laces, like bunny ears, and tying them together. It’s a great method for kids to help them understand how the loops work.
Kickstart your kiddos shoe tying!
The key to nailing shoe tying is to keep practicing until it becomes second nature for your child! They will get it in no time with this really helpful shoe tying board. This is a skill that requires a lot of patience, practice, and perseverance. Make sure you give your child plenty of support to help them learn! For more awesome activities, check out the Mothercould In Your Pocket Resource, full of exclusive, fun activities for you and your child to enjoy whenever, wherever!