Tips and Tricks for Shoe Tying

Tips and Tricks for Teaching Kids How to Tie Their Shoes

Learning how to tie shoes is a key developmental milestone for children and an essential life skill. While Velcro shoes are widely available, mastering shoe tying remains important for overall fine motor development and independence. Occupational therapists often incorporate shoe tying into therapy sessions as part of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)—the everyday tasks that help individuals navigate life successfully.

Why Is Learning to Tie Shoes Important?

Shoe tying involves more than just securing footwear; it also develops important motor and cognitive skills. The ability to tie a knot and form a bow extends beyond shoes—it applies to tasks like tying a drawstring on pants, fastening ribbons, or securing packages.

Skills Needed for Shoe Tying

Successful shoe tying requires a combination of:

• Fine motor coordination – The ability to manipulate and control the laces.
• Visual motor skills – Understanding how the laces interact to form a bow.
• Executive function and cognitive skills – Following multi-step instructions in sequence.
• Postural control and core strength – Maintaining a stable sitting position while tying.

When Should Kids Learn to Tie Their Shoes?

There is no exact age for when children should learn to tie their shoes. However, many occupational therapists recommend introducing shoe tying between ages 6 and 7. Some children may be ready earlier or need more time, depending on their individual development.

Different Methods for Teaching Shoe Tying

There are numerous techniques for teaching kids how to tie their shoes, including:

• The bunny ears method (double-loop technique)
• The standard loop, swoop, and pull method (single-loop technique)
• Adapted techniques for children with motor challenges
• One-handed methods for those needing modified approaches

It’s okay to experiment with different methods to find what works best. However, consistency helps children develop confidence and efficiency.

Shoe Tying Tips and Tricks

If your child struggles with tying shoes, try these occupational therapy-approved tips:

• Use longer, differently colored laces – This provides a visual guide for remembering the steps.
• Support proper posture – Have your child sit with their back against a wall or in a corner to improve stability.
• Practice with a lace-tying board or dressing book – These tools allow for repeated practice without frustration.
• Use alternative materials – Ribbons, thick yarn, or string can help develop knot-tying skills before transitioning to shoelaces.
• Start with shoes off the foot – Practicing on a flat surface before tying a worn shoe can make learning easier.
• Encourage practice with a parent’s or sibling’s shoes – This adds variety and real-world application.
• Incorporate fine motor activities – Strengthening hand coordination through activities like stringing beads, lacing boards, or finger exercises can support shoe-tying readiness.

Overcoming Frustration While Learning to Tie Shoes

Shoe tying can be challenging, and some children may become frustrated. Patience, practice, and encouragement are key to mastering this skill. Occupational therapists can provide additional strategies and adaptations to make shoe tying easier for children who struggle.

Need Help? Talk to an Occupational Therapist!

If your child is having difficulty learning to tie their shoes, a pediatric occupational therapist can assess their motor skills and provide personalized strategies for success. Our Kids Place pediatric occupational therapists are ready to help!