Toddlers love to say “Me do it!” and while it may take twice as long and get twice as messy, those small self-help tasks are a huge part of their development. Whether your toddler is zipping their coat, brushing their teeth, or helping to clean up toys, these everyday routines build confidence, coordination, and problem-solving skills. They are a great indicator that you as parents and the teachers at Brookshire Learning Center are doing a good job.
Teaching self-help skills early encourages independence, responsibility, and resilience. These are traits that will benefit your child for life. Here’s how to nurture these abilities and what to do when your little one says, “No!”
Why Are Self-Help Skills So Important?
According to Zero to Three, toddlers begin mastering self-help routines between 18 months and 3 years, though every child’s timeline is unique. These skills give your child the added development, growth and confidence needed to navigate their world at home and daycare.
- Fine & Gross Motor Development: Skills like putting on shoes, using utensils, and washing hands strengthen hand-eye coordination and muscle control.
- Cognitive Growth: Problem-solving (“Which shoe goes on which foot?”) sharpens critical thinking.
- Emotional Confidence: Accomplishing a task—no matter how small—boosts self-esteem and pride.
- Life Skills: Self-help routines build a foundation for success in preschool, kindergarten, and beyond.
- Social Readiness: Independent children are more prepared to participate in group activities and follow simple instructions in a childcare setting.
Easy & Fun Ways to Encourage Self-Help Skills
As parents and teachers, it is our job to present opportunities for children to learn while also living in a fast pace world that leaves parents juggling work, daycare and everything else. So what can we as the adults in young children’s lives do to make this easier?
- Offer Choices: Let your toddler pick between two shirts or two snacks. This builds decision-making skills.
- Make it a Game: Sing a clean-up song, race to put on shoes, or count how many items your toddler can tidy up.
- Use Toddler-Sized Tools: Small toothbrushes, step stools, and easy-grip utensils help little hands succeed.
- Praise the Effort, Not Just the Result: Celebrate “trying,” even if the shoes are on the wrong feet.
- Be Patient: Allow extra time so your child can do it themselves without rushing.
- Model the Behavior: Toddlers learn by watching you. Show them how you zip your jacket or brush your hair.
What If My Toddler Hates Doing It?
It’s normal for toddlers to resist sometimes. Here’s how to respond with encouragement:
- Break It Down: If dressing feels overwhelming, let them start with socks or hats first.
- Offer Help, but Don’t Take Over: Say, “I’ll help start your zipper, and you can finish it!”
- Stay Positive: Avoid turning it into a power struggle. Keep your tone light and fun.
- Be Consistent: Practice these routines daily so they become expected parts of your toddler’s day.
- Look for the “Why”: If your child is tired, hungry, or frustrated, it may not be the best time to practice independence. Try again later.
Helping your toddler master self-help skills is one of the best ways to prepare them for school and life. By encouraging independence in small, playful ways each day, you’ll see your child grow in confidence, patience, and pride. And as they learn to take on the world one task at a time, you’ll both enjoy the journey together. Let us at Brookshire Learning Center help you every along the way.