Lacing Frame — Metal Grommets with Cord Threading Practice
Part of the Dressing Frames collection, this Montessori Lacing Frame features a red and black plaid fabric panel mounted on a natural wooden frame, with metal grommets and black lacing cord for practicing the essential life skill of lacing shoes and boots. Part of the Practical Life dressing frames series, this material helps children develop the fine motor control, concentration, and sequential movements needed for independent dressing while building confidence in caring for themselves.
“The senses, being explorers of the world, open the way to knowledge.”— Maria MontessoriThe Discovery of the Child
The Lacing Frame embodies Maria Montessori's principle of 'Help me to do it myself' by isolating the complex skill of lacing into manageable, repetitive practice. This material respects the child's natural drive toward independence during the sensitive period for order and movement (ages 2.5-4.5). By providing real, adult-like materials in child-sized proportions, we honor the child's dignity and desire to master authentic life skills. The frame's design allows for concentrated practice without the frustration of managing an actual shoe, following Montessori's principle of isolating difficulty. Through this purposeful work, children develop not only physical dexterity but also the patience, persistence, and sequential thinking essential for all learning.
Step by Step to Mastery
Use slow, deliberate movements to help the child absorb the sequence
Pause at each step to allow visual processing
Emphasize the pulling motion with both hands simultaneously
Show the 'bunny ear' shape clearly before proceeding
Move slowly around the loop, maintaining its shape
Point out the small opening before pushing through
Demonstrate equal pressure on both loops
Show how the bow disappears when pulled
Use slow, deliberate movements to help the child absorb the sequence
Pause at each step to allow visual processing
Emphasize the pulling motion with both hands simultaneously
Show the 'bunny ear' shape clearly before proceeding
Move slowly around the loop, maintaining its shape
Point out the small opening before pushing through
Demonstrate equal pressure on both loops
Show how the bow disappears when pulled
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
Trusted by
Schools Worldwide
Handcrafted
in Europe
AMI
Endorsed
Related Materials
