Dressing Frame: Lacing

Lacing is a precursor to shoe-tying and develops bilateral coordination, crossing the midline, and sequential thinking.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Care of Self
• Level: Ages 4-6

Objectives

• Develop lacing and tying skills
• Build bilateral coordination
• Prepare for shoe-tying

Materials

• Montessori lacing dressing frame

Instructions

1. Unlace the frame from top to bottom. 2. Open the fabric. 3. Close the fabric, aligning eyelets. 4. Thread the lace through the bottom eyelets. 5. Cross laces and thread through next pair. 6. Continue criss-cross pattern to top. 7. Tie a bow at the top.

Educator tip

The criss-cross pattern is challenging. Use colored laces (one red, one blue) so children can track each side.

Assessment

Child laces the frame in a criss-cross pattern and ties a bow.

More from Practical Life

• Blowing Nose Properly
• Washing Face
• Folding Clothes
• Dressing Frame: Velcro
• Dressing Frame: Small Buttons
• Packing a Bag
• Applying Sunscreen
• Tying a Bow