"Me Do it Myself": Tips for Helping Your Toddler Get Dressed

Toddlers love to get dressed by themselves. But sometimes they are not able to manage the task alone. They also may be more interested in undressing than dressing! Whatever the issue, dressing can be a challenge to both parent and child.

• Choose clothing that is easy to put on. Sweatpants and leggings are usually easier to manage than jeans or overalls. Choose clothing with large arm and neck holes. Shirts and dresses with few fasteners are ideal. Velcro is great!
• Give your toddler limited choices. Let your toddler choose between two or three outfits that you select. Limited choices are less overwhelming than a closet full of clothes to choose from. Choices give children some control and may prevent a battle.
• Give yourself time. Feeling stressed and rushing your toddler too much may make things worse. Try building extra time into the morning schedule for dressing. Put out the clothes choices the night before.
• Prepare your child. Take a few minutes of quiet time. Give your toddler a few minutes warning that dressing time is coming.
• Use distraction. Distract your toddler. Sing, do silly rhymes, talk about the day, cuddle, and give kisses!
• Make a game out of dressing. Challenge your toddler to dress as fast as he or she can. Set a timer. Pretend to be different animals as you dress. Count how many buttons you button. Make it fun!
• Praise, praise, praise. Toddlers always like to hear how hard they have tried and how much they know how to do!

Adapted from Healthy Steps. Edited and Compiled by the Center for Promotion of Child Development Through Primary Care 2011