6 Books About Dressing Yourself


My toddler has just started dressing himself, from top to bottom—and it’s a source of immense self-pride. I’ll never forget the first time he came out of his room wearing an orange tee shirt and red shorts. Never mind the fact that the two main articles of his ensemble clashed something fierce or that they were both blatantly on backwards—and, yes, the mismatched socks were the icing on one very eclectic cake. I didn’t dare correct him, and he stayed like that the whole day, beaming with a sense of accomplishment.
Getting yourself dressed is a big deal and a major milestone for little ones. It means they’ve mastered some important motor skills, and that they’re slowly on their way to gaining independence. It’s certainly something to celebrate and encourage early—so I’ve rounded up six board and picture books all about getting dressed. Even if it does mean your toddler might occasionally wear his underwear over his pants.
Let’s Get Dressed, by Caroline Jayne Church
This fun and silly board book educates kids about how to dress themselves from start to finish. “First, we need a brand-new pair of super-duper…UNDERWEAR!” It features oversized flaps on every page where kids can guess which article of clothing comes next.
I Get Dressed, by David McPhail
All sorts of animals try on different clothes—a fox in a dress and a rabbit in shoes. But “if they can get dressed, so can you!” Playful and whimsical, this catchy book has a simple, encouraging message.
Ships in 1-2 days.
Froggy gets Dressed, by Jonathan London and Frank Remkiewicz
Froggy doesn’t have a lot of patience for morning ablutions. One winter day, he runs right out of the house to play in the snow. But, soon enough, his mother calls him back in to get dressed in some very important (and warming) articles of clothing.
Ships in 1-2 days.
My Clothes Mi Ropa, by Rebecca Emberley
This bright and colorful English-Spanish board book teaches little kids the simple words for articles of clothing in both languages—from socks and shoes, to pants and shirts.
Maggie and Michael Get Dressed, by Denise Fleming
When his mom asks him to get dressed, little Michael elicits help from his dog, Maggie. But somehow all his clothes wind up on her instead, making a seemingly simple routine a silly and amusing activity.
Ella Sarah Gets Dressed, by Margaret Chodos-Irvine
Ella Sarah may be young, but she’s very opinionated when it comes to fashion. And she has a unique, flamboyant, over-the-top style that’s all her own. Her mother, father, and sister want her to dress just like them, but Ella Sarah doesn’t mind standing out and making a sartorial statement. This fun book teaches young kids that getting dressed can be a form of expression and that it’s okay to march to the beat of your own drum.
What books would you recommend for kids just beginning to dress themselves?





