Parent tip
Start before you overthink it. No-prep activities work best when you begin while the moment is still recoverable.
Shoes On, Shoes Off Race
Turn the daily shoe battle into a silly, timed putting-on-and-off game.
Activity details
Instructions
- Set out their shoes and sit on the floor together
- Say: 'Let's play the shoe game! Can you put them on really fast?'
- Count slowly while they try: 'One... two... three...' (adjust speed so they succeed)
- Cheer when they're on: 'You did it! Now — can you take them off?'
- Repeat: on, off, on, off — it gets funnier each time
- Try with different shoes: wellies, sandals, trainers
- Race each other: 'Let's both put our shoes on — who's first?'
- End with: 'You're so good at shoes! That'll be easy tomorrow morning'
What success looks like
Flushed cheeks, big smiles, and a calmer child afterwards. If they want to do it again, you’ve found a winner.
The morning shoe struggle is one of the most common daily flashpoints for toddler families. This activity reframes it as a game: 'Can you put your shoes on before I count to ten? Ready... one... two...' Practising outside the pressure of actually needing to leave the house means the skill develops in a low-stress context. When the real moment comes, they have both the ability and the positive association.
Why it helps
The EYFS framework's early learning goals state that children at the expected level will manage their own basic hygiene and personal needs, including dressing — making practice with fastenings and clothing a direct school-readiness skill. Dressing skills are a key independence milestone, and shoes are often the hardest item for toddlers to manage independently. Practising as a game removes the time pressure that causes morning meltdowns. The repetition builds muscle memory for the physical task, while the playful framing creates a positive association with a previously stressful activity. Counts and races also develop number sense and body coordination.
Variations
- Put shoes on the wrong feet deliberately and see if they notice.
- Try putting on each other's shoes — oversized adult shoes are hilarious.
- Add socks to the challenge for older toddlers: socks then shoes.
Safety tips
- Use shoes with velcro or slip-on styles for easier independent practice.
- Ensure the practice area is clear of tripping hazards.
- Avoid lace-up shoes which are frustrating and a tangling risk.
Get weekly activity ideas for your toddler
One email a week with practical toddler activities, behaviour tips, and developmental insights. No spam, unsubscribe any time.