Typically, metaphors, visuals and associations are strategies frequently used to teach children new concepts. So, why not use them when we’re teaching children how to tie shoelaces? While trying to teach our 4-year-old son how to tie his shoelaces, we noticed the language we used to give him directions was too vague and confusing. It made it difficult for us to give directions and even harder for him to understand the directions. That’s when we realized that we can’t use distinctive language if the shoelaces look the same.

So, we started with two different colored shoelaces, which provided us with a distinctive visual and verbal connection. Now, we were able to use specific language when giving directions. Our son was able to follow the directions and quickly learned how to tie his shoelaces. But something was missing, we wanted to make the connection more meaningful to children. So, we created images of children’s favorite things that are typically seen together and put them on each side of the shoelaces. Not only are the images motivating and fun but they allow us to provide clearer directions that are easy to follow. The images are universal, they can be used in any language and with any shoe tying method. Learning how to tie shoelaces just became easier to teach and more fun for everyone, with Tie-Mates!