Models and Supports Self-Help Skills

Resource Description:

In this exemplar video, a teacher models and supports a child as they learn a self-help skill, putting on shoes. Notice how the teacher verbalized and explicitly showed the child how to do each step: “When we first put on our shoes, we have to see which one is left and which one is right,” “Next, we have to pull this out and push our foot in” and “Then we are going to velcro the straps.” After modeling, she encouraged the child to try putting on her own right shoe, narrating what the child was doing and supporting as necessary. Explicitly teaching self-help skills and allowing children to practice is important because it builds independence and confidence.

Resource Video:

Age Group: Pre-K

Resource Category: Exemplar


Credential Level: Level 1
Competency Area: Responsive Interactions and Guidance