Getting Ready for Fall and Winter Dressing

How bitKIDS Helps Kids With Dressing Skills

When the weather turns chilly, we all know what that means — coats, hats, mittens, zippers, and layers! For some kids, though, getting dressed for fall and winter can feel like a really big job.

At bitKIDS, we help children learn these everyday skills through fun, supportive one-to-one sessions that build independence — one step (and one mitten) at a time.

Why Dressing Can Be Tricky

Putting on a coat or doing up a zipper might seem simple, but it’s actually a pretty big skill. Kids need to remember the order of steps, use their fine motor skills, focus on what comes next, and sometimes manage how different textures or layers feel on their skin.

Our therapists use Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) strategies to make it easier. We break each goal into small, achievable steps so kids can experience success and build motivation along the way.

“Every small step toward independence is worth celebrating — even if it’s just finding the right sleeve!”

What This Looks Like in Sessions

Our dressing programs are personalized for each child. Depending on what they’re working on, your child might practice:

• Zipping up their coat – learning how to line up the zipper, pull it up, and celebrate every “click!”
• Putting on hats and mittens – through desensitization (fancy word for getting used to new textures and sensations in a positive way).
• Buttoning or snapping coats – using fun toys to build fine motor strength before generalizing to real clothing.
• Wearing and taking off outerwear – practicing independence for home, school, and playground routines.
• Following “Hat and Coat Rules” – understanding when and why we wear warm clothes before heading outside.

Each success is met with high fives, smiles, and encouragement — because learning should always feel positive.

Supporting Sensory Needs

Some kids find coats, scarves, or snow pants uncomfortable — and that’s okay!

Our desensitization programs help children slowly and gently get used to new sensations. Therapists might start by playing with fabrics, wearing items for short periods, or pairing clothing practice with fun, motivating activities.

Celebrating Progress Together

Every new step — from swinging a coat around to doing up a zipper — is a reason to celebrate. These skills make mornings smoother, transitions easier, and playtime more fun.

And because we know parents are the most important part of their child’s team, we always share strategies, visuals, and progress updates so you can keep the learning going at home.

Working Together With Families

At bitKIDS, our one-to-one ABA services help children build practical, real-world skills that matter. Dressing, feeding, self-regulation, communication — they all come together to support independence and confidence every day.

If fall and winter dressing has been a challenge for your child, you’re not alone — and we can help.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make getting dressed for the season something your child can feel proud of!
Contact bitKIDS to learn more about how our one-to-one ABA programs can support your child’s self-care and independence goals.