Putting on a Jacket

Putting on a jacket independently builds confidence and prepares children for outdoor play without adult help.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Care of Self
• Level: Ages 3-4

Objectives

• Develop dressing independence
• Learn arm coordination
• Build self-reliance

Materials

• Child's jacket or coat
• Coat hook or chair

Instructions

1. Hold jacket by collar with inside facing up. 2. Flip over head. 3. Find armholes. 4. Insert one arm, then other. 5. Pull down to settle on shoulders. 6. Close zipper or buttons.

Educator tip

The flip method works well for younger children. Some prefer the traditional one-arm-at-a-time approach.

Assessment

Child puts on jacket independently using consistent method.

More from Practical Life

• Zipping a Jacket
• Buttoning a Shirt
• Tying a Bow
• Putting on Socks
• Putting on Shoes
• Using Velcro Fasteners
• Snapping Buttons
• Rolling Up Sleeves