How To Teach Toddler To Put On a Jacket

Do you want to know how to teach your toddler to put on a jacket? Then look no further we have a guide that will help. We have four detailed, with picture instruction techniques, that you could try. Naturally, your child will choose one over the others. Whichever one they choose will help them become more independent. This new independent technique will give them a sense of pride and accomplishment. Not to mention, you will be at peace knowing when you are not around they can confidently do it themselves.

Flip Method

The first technique up is the 'flip method'. This one is our toddler's favorite method. I guess it makes him feel like a superhero putting on his cape, lol.

1. Lay the jacket/coat on the floor and spread it out with the opening upward.

2. The toddler will stand at the top/hood of the coat.

3. The toddler will bend and place hands in the armpit area of the jacket, slightly inserted into the arm for control.

4. The toddler will lift the jacket from the floor with both hands flipping it towards their backside.

5. Slide hands/arms into sleeves as the toddler jacket slides down the arms to rest on their back.

Chair Spread Method

The chair spread method is another easy trick to teach your toddler. This would be especially useful for those toddler jackets that do not have hoods attached. It would also be easy to do while at daycare or at school. At least as a parent, I would know that before my child goes outside to play during recess that they will have their coat on. Then once outside if they take off their coat and need to put it back on. They can use a bench to help themselves.

1. Spread the back of the coat against the back of a chair, bench, or couch (a place that has a back and allows the child to sit).

2. The toddler will sit with their back to the open side of the coat.

3. The toddler will slide one arm at a time into the sleeves.

Hood Method

If your toddler jacket has a hood on it then this may be the method of choice. Teaching your toddler to put on their jacket this way will help them if there are no seats around. This method is also one of the easier methods of them all. This means even the youngest toddler would be able to become self-sufficient in getting their jacket on.

1. Place the hood onto the toddler's head.

2. Hold the toddler jacket with the opposite hand.

3. Put the same side arm through the sleeve.

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the opposite side.

Self Hanger Method

In the case that there are no seats and no hood on the jacket the self-hanger method is useful. This method is the hardest method of them all. Although, it is still effective in creating independent behavior. A balancing ability and patience  are needed with the self hanger method.

1. Hang toddler jacket across the shoulders.

2. Grab and hold the the toddler jacket with the opposite side hand.

3. Slide the same side arm into the sleeve.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 on the other side.

Now that jacket season is back we can all help our little ones stay comfortable. If they decide to take off their jacket for any reason, we as parents can rest assured of their ability to put their jackets back on when they are too chilly. Besides, our toddlers are always looking for ways to 'do it themselves. Being able to put on your own jacket is an exciting milestone.

Did you find this article helpful? Please let us know in the comments. We love feedback! Do you have a different method that works for your toddler? Looking for toddler jackets? Shop our store Kyds Klothing.