How to Tie a Tie for Kids – Easy Step-by-Step Guide for Parents and Children

Introduction: Teaching Kids to Tie a Tie Can Be Fun!

Whether your child is getting ready for a wedding, school photos, or a special family event, knowing how to tie a tie is a skill they’ll use for years. For parents, teaching it can feel tricky — especially if your little one is wearing a smaller, children’s tie. That’s why we’ve created this easy, parent-and-kid-friendly step-by-step guide that’s quick to follow and stress-free.

By the end of this blog, your child will know exactly how to tie a tie — and you’ll have shared a little life skill they’ll remember forever.


Why Learn to Tie a Tie Early?

  • Confidence booster – Your child will feel grown-up and prepared for any formal event.
  • Life skill – They’ll use it for school, sports presentations, dances, job interviews, and more.
  • Bonding time – It’s a small activity that creates a lasting memory between parent and child.

The Best Knot for Kids: The Four-in-Hand Knot

For children, the Four-in-Hand Knot is the easiest and most comfortable. It’s neat, works with any shirt collar, and is less bulky than other knots — perfect for smaller necks.


Step-by-Step: How to Tie a Tie for Kids (Four-in-Hand Knot)

kids tie four in hand know diagram

Tip: Practice in front of a mirror together. Have your child hold the tie while you guide their hands.


Step 1: Start with the Tie Around the Neck

  • Place the tie around your child’s neck, with the wide end hanging about 8–10 cm lower than the narrow end.
  • The label of the tie should be facing inward.

Step 2: Cross the Wide End Over the Narrow End

  • Bring the wide end across the narrow end, creating an "X" just below the collar.

Step 3: Wrap the Wide End Under and Around

  • Pass the wide end underneath the narrow end, bringing it back to the front on the opposite side.

Step 4: Bring the Wide End Across the Front Again

  • Cross it horizontally over the front. You’ll now have a loop at the top.

Step 5: Pull the Wide End Up Through the Neck Loop

  • Lift the wide end up and behind the neck loop.

Step 6: Pass It Through the Front Loop

  • Slide the wide end down through the front loop you made in Step 4.

Step 7: Tighten and Adjust

  • Hold the narrow end and gently pull the knot up toward the collar.
  • Straighten and center the knot.

✅ Done! Your child now has a neatly tied tie ready for their big event.


Tips for Teaching Kids to Tie a Tie

  • Start with a larger mirror so they can see what they’re doing.
  • Practice on a stuffed animal first — it makes it fun before trying on themselves.
  • Keep the knot loose at first until they get the hang of tightening it.
  • Use a kids’ tie length so it sits properly above the belt line.
three images of a boy in formal attire featuring a tie

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake How to Fix It
Tie too short Start with the wide end hanging lower.
Knot too loose Hold narrow end and pull knot gently upward.
Crooked knot Adjust before tightening fully.
Wrinkles in tie Smooth fabric as you go.

When to Wear a Tie

  • Weddings and formal celebrations
  • Birthday parties
  • School photos or award ceremonies
  • Family gatherings
  • Special dinners or events

Shop Children’s Ties

Now that you know how to tie a tie, why not practice with a tie your child will love? Our Children’s Tie Collection features premium, easy-to-tie designs in fun patterns and classic colours — perfect for boys aged 4–14.

Browse Kids’ Ties Here


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