My toddler keeps taking their shoes off – help and hacks are here!

Is this your toddler? Do you find that shoes come off when driving, while walking and as soon as they are put on? Although it may feel frustrating at times, this is one way of your toddler promoting their own learning and encouraging greater independence. We have some tips here for helping all the shoe removing toddlers out there!

Lots of learning is taking place

Shoes often come off at the most unhelpful of times, it seems like this inconvenience is a skill all on its own. However, when your toddler takes off their shoes they are: 

• Focusing and building their concentration 
• Completing a task independently 
• Showing confidence in their abilities 
• Developing fine motor muscles 
• Building finger strength 
• Demonstrating fine and gross motor muscle coordination 
• Developing hand-eye coordination 

Things you can do to help your toddler keep their shoes on: 

Don’t make a fuss – drawing attention to their constant shoe removal will only make it more appealing. 

Only put their shoes back on when it is necessary – if it is safe to do so, keep their shoes off until they need to be on. 

Explain why shoes need to be worn – there’s no need to go into detail. In simple terms, explain to your toddler that shoes protect feet and keep them safe. 

Check whether the shoes are comfortable – it might be that the shoes are simply uncomfortable. Perhaps get their feet measured or try a few different pairs on when they next need new shoes. Your toddler might find a pair they are more willing to wear. 

Praise when they keep shoes on – if your toddler keeps their shoes on when they usually take them off, or even keeps them on for a little longer than normal, acknowledge this and praise them. You might say, “You kept your shoes on for longer today, that is brilliant!” 

Fresh air freedom – your toddler may simply like the freedom their feet feel while barefoot. Having barefoot time is incredibly good for them and should be embraced when it’s safe to do so.