Smart Scissors Tips - Part 2

After reading "Smart Scissors Tips Part 1", you should better understand why you should teach your child to use scissors. Here are some smart tips on how to help them learn this skill. This is the order in which children should cut:

• 2 years: cut the end of a piece of paper

• 2. 5 years: cut a piece of paper

• 3. 3 - 3. 5 years: cut 1/2 "dark line [can not cut the line more than 3 times]

• 3.5-4.0 years old: cut a circle with black lines [must stay close to the line 3/4 circle]

• 4.5-5.0 years old: cut out a square with dark lines [corners should be sharp]

Whenever your child has one of the above sequences, make sure he/she can cut a variety of materials. Cutting thicker materials is easier than cutting thin materials. So start by cutting the dough, then go to the Manila folder, then go to the construction paper, then go to plain paper, then to the paper towel. This will ensure that your child is really able to cut a specific shape. Keep in mind that when children cut on the line, the lines should always be dark and at least 1/4" - 1/2" thick so they are easy to see and the child won't feel depressed.

Fiskar scissors are best for right- or left-handed children because they have maximum stability when cutting and they have rounded edges so they are not so sharp. You may want to take paper for your child when you start cutting, because bilateral coordination can be difficult to learn. The child should first learn how to open and close his/her hand and feel the feeling of cutting the paper. If your child has difficulty opening or closing his/her hands or feeling frustrated, you may want to try other instruments or perform other tasks related to cutting. For example, pliers and forceps require the same opening and closing motion of the scissors. Have your child pick up interesting items with pliers or tweezers and put them in the bucket. You can use it as a match or let them crawl on the floor while encouraging shoulder strength. In addition, the puncher is an interesting tool that most kids think is really cool! Play-DOH scissors are also very safe for young children. After your child can cut out a shape, color them, put their names on them, and hang them up to make them proud of their work!

Please note that scissors can be dangerous and should always be supervised when using scissors. Most importantly, don't be afraid or nervous if you are with them and let your child use scissors. This mission will help them succeed in many areas as they grow up! Share this experience with your child, be creative, and enjoy it!

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Orignal From: Smart Scissors Tips - Part 2