How to put on a coat in preschool

A neat trick that will foster independence in your classroom!

In the middle of winter time, it can seem like the classroom is filled with an overabundance of coats, gloves, hats, and scarves. Trying to keep winter wear all organized and then helping kids get everything on can be a daunting task for preschoolers yet alone preschool teachers (or parents). To help the children be more independent in putting coats on, we teach them this simple process so they can learn how to put on their own coat…

Step 1

Start by inviting a child to place his or her coat in the middle of the floor with the zipper or opening of the coat facing up. Then  stand at the head of the coat and look down…

Step 2

Next, invite the child to place both hands inside the sleeves of the coat…

Step 3

Now the child must lift the coat up and over his head while continuing to slide his hands down the sleeve of the coat…

A fun and simple process

Some of my students are able to put their coats on the traditional way and others can get one sleeve on then end up chasing their other sleeve around in circles. So we introduce this process to all the children then let them explore which way works best for them…

The Final Step

Once the children have a good grasp on getting coats on all by their selves, then we are ready to move onto how to zip up a zipper!

But I don’t have any tips for zipping up coats – just lots of patience, practice, and time for those fine motor skills to cooperate!

Available on Amazon

Links to Grow On

Fleece Mittens from Make It and Love It

Colorful Fine Motor Play by Teach Preschool

How to Zip a Jacket from Baby Center

Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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