HomeBlogBlogWhat Are Lacing Toys? Benefits, Types & Best Age

What Are Lacing Toys? Benefits, Types & Best Age

What are lacing toys?

Lacing toys are hands-on learning toys that invite kids to thread a lace, string, or shoelace-style cord through holes in a shape, card, or pretend “shoe.” They often look simple—wooden pieces with evenly spaced holes, chunky needles, or thick cords—but they’re designed to build important early skills through repetitive, satisfying practice.

How lacing toys work

Most lacing toys include a base piece (like an animal, fruit, or shoe cutout) with pre-drilled holes and a sturdy lace with a tip that’s easy to grip. Kids push the lace through one hole, pull it through, then repeat—either in a straight path, around the edge, or in a crisscross pattern that resembles tying shoes.

Why parents and teachers use lacing toys

Threading and pulling the lace helps strengthen fine motor control, hand muscles, and finger coordination. It also supports bilateral coordination (using both hands together), visual-motor skills (eyes guiding hands), and attention as children follow a pattern from hole to hole. Many kids also enjoy the “I did it!” feeling that comes with completing the loop around a shape.

Common types of lacing toys

Lacing toys come in a few popular formats:

Wooden lacing sets (durable and easy to handle), lacing cards (flat cards with holes for pictures and patterns), and lacing shoe toys (shoe-shaped pieces that mimic real shoelacing). Some sets include multiple shapes and extra-long cords for more advanced patterning.

Choosing a good lacing toy

Look for smooth edges, large holes, and a thick lace that won’t fray easily. For younger children, bigger pieces and shorter paths can reduce frustration. For kids practicing shoe skills, a wooden lacing shoe toy set is especially helpful—see a detailed example and tips here: wooden lacing shoe toy set guide.

FAQ

What age are lacing toys good for?

Many children enjoy lacing toys starting around ages 2–3 with larger pieces and thick laces, while preschool and kindergarten kids can handle more complex patterns. Always follow the manufacturer’s age guidance, especially for cord length and small parts.