Put on Your Own Shoes Day

Put on Your Own Shoes Day falls annually on December 6, marking a day dedicated to independence and the simple act of preparing for the day ahead. This holiday highlights the developmental milestone of learning to dress oneself while acknowledging the daily necessity of footwear.

History of Put on Your Own Shoes Day

Thomas and Ruth Roy of Wellcat Holidays created this observance. The couple is known for establishing numerous copyrighted holidays that bring attention to quirky, specific, or humorous aspects of daily life. They established this specific day to celebrate the small victory of self-sufficiency, specifically targeting the moment a child learns to handle their own footwear.

The choice of December 6 is likely connected to St. Nicholas Day. In many cultures, children leave their shoes out on the night of December 5 hoping to find treats in them the next morning. The Roys playfully suggest that after checking for candy or gifts, the next logical step is to put those shoes on your feet by yourself.

Why is Put on Your Own Shoes Day important?

This day serves as a significant marker for child development. Learning to put on shoes involves fine motor skills, patience, and the cognitive ability to distinguish left from right. When a child masters Velcro, buckles, or laces, they gain a sense of accomplishment and move one step closer to personal independence.

For adults, the holiday offers a reminder of the privileges of mobility and self-reliance. It draws attention to the functional importance of shoes in protecting feet and facilitating movement. The day underscores the value of taking responsibility for one’s own preparation before stepping out into the world.

• It highlights a major milestone in childhood development
• The day encourages self-reliance and independence
• Shoes provide essential protection for our feet
• Mastering shoelaces builds fine motor skills
• It serves as a reminder to be grateful for mobility

How to Celebrate Put on Your Own Shoes Day

Parents can use this time to teach young children how to tie their laces or fasten their shoes. Turning the lesson into a game with colorful laces or stickers to mark left and right makes the learning process enjoyable. Patience is key during this process to help build the child’s confidence.

Adults can observe the day by caring for their footwear. Polishing leather shoes, cleaning sneakers, or replacing worn-out laces helps extend the life of the shoes. This is also an appropriate time to sort through closets and donate gently used pairs to organizations that support people in need.

• Teach a toddler how to put on their sneakers
• Donate good quality used shoes to a shelter
• Clean and polish your favorite pair of boots
• Buy a new pair of comfortable shoes
• Wear your most supportive footwear for the day

Put on Your Own Shoes Day Dates Table