Helping your child learn to dress independently

Learning to dress is an important life skill, but it takes both practice and time to become independent.

Dressing involves many different skills. It needs balance, coordination, hand strength, body awareness and following a sequence of steps.

Every child develops these skills at their own pace.

Remember: undressing is usually easier than dressing. It is often best to start there.

Children use many skills when getting dressed, including:

• moving their arms, legs and body in different ways
• understanding where their body is without always looking
• knowing left from right and front from back
• using both hands together
• balancing while sitting or standing

Keep activities positive, allow plenty of time and celebrate small successes. With support and encouragement, your child's independence will gradually grow.