Dressing can-do talk
1–2 yearsEmotional WellbeingMaterials: Regular clothing
During dressing routines, use encouraging language that highlights what your child can do. Say "You can put your arm through" or "You're getting so good at this." When they struggle, say "This is tricky, but we can do it together." This builds confidence and the belief that with effort, tasks become easier over time.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
During dressing routines, use encouraging language that highlights what your child can do. Say "You can put your arm through" or "You're getting so good at this." When they struggle, say "This is tricky, but we can do it together." This builds confidence and the belief that with effort, tasks become easier over time.
Why It Works
Highlighting capability and progress builds a child's confidence and optimistic self-perception. Research demonstrates that learned optimism training significantly improved confidence and perseverance, with focus on optimism in daily settings leading to increased motivation (Seligman et al., 2009). By emphasizing what your child can do, you foster the belief that abilities grow with practice.
Tips for Parents
Break dressing into small steps. Celebrate each one completed.
Stay patient. Rushing creates stress, which undermines optimistic feelings.
Point out progress. Say "Last week this was hard. Now you're doing it."
Materials Needed
Regular clothing
Learning Methods
Language-Rich EnvironmentImitation and Modeling
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