Velcro vs. Laces: The Real Debate

Velcro. I hate a cliffhanger!

If you are shoe shopping and wondering if it matters, it does. In the preschool years we spend a lot of time supporting our students in self-help skills and fostering their independence. Most young children want to have some control over their things and themselves and their self-esteem is bolstered when seemingly small goals are accomplished. Velcro is a wonderful invention and addition to the world of shoes and this ability to be independent. It seems insignificant but in the preschool classroom we are always looking for ways for students to exhibit their independence and taking care of their clothing and outerwear is one such way we can create positive experiences for our students.

Laces are the bane of a preschool teacher’s existence. No matter how tight you tie them, no matter the fancy knots, double knots, or special laces they always come untied. And an untied shoe leads to tripping, a stop in play or work to have an adult re-tie, anxiety in kids who need them re-tied immediately, a frustration for children whose shoes are always untied, and kids putting the untied lace in their mouths (NOT joking, wish I was).