They want to learn to tie their shoes

The boys are insisting that I show them how to tie their shoes so I let them do the tugging parts and I make the wrap around and through -- they are watching intently while I do it and I see them practicing sometimes trying to figure it out. They are already able to do the majority of dressing themselves (and can do ALL undressing, even little buttons). I have to help them with things like the big snap on their jeans (they get upset and undo it if I snap it without their help). I also have to start the zipper on their jacket but they must have their hands on it, helping, while I start it or they'll undo it and whine for help. It takes FOREVER to get ready right now because they are so into the "me dos".

It's weird because they're suddenly wanting to be carried on the stairs at the same time but someone posted about their kids getting like that while learning something new so perhaps this is their deal also.

Anyone else teach their kids to tie shoes at 2? Are my guys as odd as I think they are? :unsure:

 

I guess you can always try. Although, I think it's a task that requires more advanced manual dexteriety than a 2 year old processes. But you never know?

Our boys are almost 4 years old and cannot tie their shoes yet. They can readily put on and take off their own velcro shoes but that's the extent of it. From what I see with my friends and relative's kids, most just start to learn how to tie their shoes at Kindergarten age. Some 1st and 2nd graders just get it down pat. They can tie them but don't make a strong enough knot and they come undo within a few minutes.

 

My girls want to learn to tie their shoes also. I have shown them and they almost have it, but at 4 1/2 they still aren't quite there.

 

My girls both learned shoe tying as young 3 year olds. But my son is going to be 4 in March, and he is just starting to want to learn it. How great if they figure it out. Heck, I have the philosophy that you can teach a child anything if they are showing interest in it! When the girls were in preschool, nobody else their age knew how to tie yet, so I think that was probably pretty early. But, they wanted to learn, so.........

 

Your boys crack me up, Debi.

If they are really interested...go for it. Maybe get them some lacing cards and some "shoe tying" practice cards. Any preschool supplier (like Lakeshore Learning) should have these items.

If it's really a hassle, just get them velcro/slip on shoes.

I keep wishing my boys would get a little more 'me do'....but I forget that it's only on their terms, and usually at incredibly inopportune moments!

 

Well considering only half of my kindergarten class can tie their shoes, chances are you have a while still.

My kids insist on helping also and try to do it on their own. Recently, I gave them lacing cards and they LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to play with those. I highly recommend it! It can help build their fine motor skills, while giving them the opportunity to "play" with laces.