Building Winter Independence: OT Tips to Help Kids Master Dressing, Boots, Zippers & Snow Gear

By Beriah Chandoo, Registered Paediatric Occupational Therapist

Winter gear is hard for little hands — layered clothing, stiff boots, tricky zippers, gloves that never cooperate. This blog helps parents support independence (and reduce morning battles!) using OT strategies rooted in fine motor development, sequencing, and sensory regulation.

1. Why Winter Dressing Is Challenging for Kids
Explain motor planning, hand strength, bilateral coordination, and sensory sensitivities to textures or tight clothing.

2. OT Strategies to Build Independence

Practical, evidence-based tips such as:

• practicing zippers and gloves off the child first

• using visual sequences for multi-step dressing

• warming up stiff hands with quick movement activities

• setting up a predictable “gear station” at home

3. Fine Motor Activities That Make Dressing Easier
Ideas like:

• tweezers/tongs play

• button boards

• sticker peeling

• Play-Doh for pinch strength

Using Play-Doh helps children build the hand strength, finger dexterity, and bilateral coordination needed for zippers, buttons, and winter gear.

If winter dressing or other daily tasks feel stressful, or you notice your child struggling with zippers, buttons, boots, or multi-step routines, a paediatric OT can help build independence, confidence, and ease at home.

Book a session with Beriah today to get tailored strategies and hands-on support for your child.