Self-Help Skills

What better time to work on self-help skills?! As a parent, I know that most days we are in a rush to get somewhere and allowing the kids to tie their shoes or zip up their jacket takes awhile so it's just faster to do it for them. Now that we are home, let's teach them to be more independent! There are many prerequisite skills required for these seemingly simple tasks, but practice is also the key! As you go through your morning routine or head out on your daily walk, take a moment to step back and notice what they need help with. Here are a few things to practice:

• Buttoning shirts

• Fasteners for pants (zip, snap, or button)

• Putting on their own shoes

• Tying their own shoes (it sounds daunting but let's work together and chances are they will suprise you!)

• Putting on their own jacket

• Zipping up a jacket or hoodie

One way to ensure success, and decrease frustration, is by using backward chaining. That is where we do the first few steps for them and then they help complete the task. For example, you thread the zipper and they pull it up. Or you push the button partway through the hole and they pull the rest of the way. For shoe tying, it could even be making the bow and them pulling it tight. Celebrate their success no matter how small. Being independent is a great feeling, so let's get started!

Shoe Tying

I sent home a shoe tying program for several of my students after Winter Break. I still plan to reward the kids for practicing and learning to tie their shoes when we get back to school so keep practicing! If you did not receive the information, my best tip is to practice with 2 different colored laces. If you need visuals, please reach out to me! I will try to include more pictures when I get a chance to get back to my office.

Additional Resources:

• http://mamaot.com/when-can-kids-learn-to-button-and-zip/

• https://kidsplayspace.com.au/clothing-fasteners-and-fine-motor-skill-development/

• https://therapyfunzone.net/blog/the-visual-motor-aspect-of-buttons-and-zippers/