Learning to Get Dressed
Parent invites toddler to participate in getting dressed, offering simple choices and opportunities to help with clothing. The agent coaches the parent to observe cooperation, following simple instructions, and emerging independence during dressing routines — building self-efficacy and healthy habits.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Toddler alert and calm, not tired or hungry. Simple clothing item available (shirt or pants). Choose a comfortable spot for dressing — floor, bed, or changing table. No rush — allow extra time.
How it works
- 1~30s
Start by holding up the shirt and saying, 'your child, let's put on your shirt together! I'm going to put it over your head, and then you can help with the arms.' As you gently put the shirt over their head, watch their reaction. Does your child cooperate by leaning forward or lifting their arms? Does they seem willing to participate rather than resist? Tell me what you notice.
Watch for: Toddler cooperates during dressing by leaning forward, lifting arms, or helping with clothing.
- 2~35s
Now for the arms. Hold the shirt sleeve open and say, 'your child, I'm going to touch your arm. Can you help me put it through the hole?' Gently touch their arm and guide it toward the sleeve. Does your child follow this simple instruction by moving their arm toward the sleeve? Does they understand the connection between your touch and the action needed?
Watch for: Toddler follows simple one-step instruction related to dressing ('put your arm here').
- 3~30s
As you finish dressing, offer specific praise — 'You did such a good job helping with your shirt!' Then give your child a simple choice: 'Would you like to pull the shirt down or should I help?' Watch their response. Does your child show pride in their accomplishment? Does they attempt any independent action, like pulling the shirt down or adjusting it?
Watch for: Toddler shows pride in accomplishment and attempts independent dressing actions.