DIY Anti-Slip Shoes
Parent and toddler work together to create non-slip soles for shoes using simple household materials. The agent coaches the parent to observe problem-solving, fine motor skills, and understanding of cause-and-effect as the child participates in this practical craft activity.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Gather shoes, hot glue gun (with adult supervision) or fabric puff paint, and protective surface. Choose a well-ventilated area. Have your child seated at a table or on the floor where they can participate safely.
How it works
- 1~40s
Start by showing your child the shoes and explaining what you're going to do: 'These shoes are slippery! Let's make them grippy so we don't slip.' Ask your child to help you decide where to put the grippy dots — on the toes? The heels? Watch how they responds. Does your child point to spots on the shoes? Offer ideas? Show understanding of the problem? Tell me what you notice.
Watch for: Child participates in planning the solution — suggesting where to place grippy dots or showing understanding of the slippery shoe problem.
- 2~45s
Now it's time to apply the grippy dots. If you're using a hot glue gun, you control it while your child helps press the dots or guides your hand. With puff paint, your child might squeeze the bottle with your help. Watch their fine motor control — how does they handle the materials? Does your child try to squeeze, press, or manipulate the tools? Notice hand coordination and persistence.
Watch for: Child uses hands to help apply grippy dots — squeezing, pressing, or guiding with developing coordination.
- 3~35s
Let's test our creation! Have your child put on the shoes (or just press them against different surfaces). Try the floor, a rug, maybe a smooth table. Ask: 'Do they grip now? Feel the difference!' Watch your child's reaction. Does they notice the change? Try to slide before and after? Show excitement about the result? This is all about understanding cause and effect.
Watch for: Child demonstrates understanding that the grippy dots cause better traction — testing, comparing, or expressing the difference.