Every parent knows the joy and pride of seeing their kid's first steps or hearing their first words. Each milestone is a step toward independence.

But what if something as simple as tying shoelaces becomes a challenge? For children with Dyspraxia, this everyday task can be a significant challenge.

» Learn how to find the perfect all-season shoe for your kid

What is Dyspraxia in Children?

Dyspraxia is a chronic condition in which children don't develop age-appropriate motor skills, leading to difficulty with movement, balance, and coordination.

Challenges Dyspraxic Children Face

Some of the challenges that kids with Dyspaxia face include:

• Difficulties with dressing, writing, and drawing
• Problems with multitasking
• Poor coordination

» Check out the common mistakes parents make when buying shoes for their kids

How Do You Teach a Child With Dyspraxia to Tie Shoes?

Patience is important when teaching your kid to tie their shoes. To help them learn faster, you can do the following:

• Break down the process into simple and easy-to-follow steps
• Use videos and diagrams
• Ask an occupational therapist for support

Step-by-Step Shoelace Tying Techniques

The Bunny Ear

1. Make a loop in each lace, leaving one slightly longer
2. Cross the longer loop over the shorter one
3. Pull the shorter loop through the hole in the longer one
4. Pull on both laces to tighten

The Ninja

1. Remove your shoelaces and thread them from the top
2. Put in a half-knot and cross-thread the shoe all the way down
3. Tie the ends of the lace down at the bottom, then move the slack back up the shoe
4. Pull the laces to tighten the laces to the foot
5. Pull the opposite loops over one another and then cross one back

» Find out if shoes with support can help your kid with balance and coordination

One Step at a Time

Dyspraxia can make fine motor tasks like shoe-tying more challenging. Still, your kid can progress and gain confidence by learning this skill with your encouragement. To make your child's journey easier, have them wear shoes from the First Walkers orthopaedic collection.