Do you have a little one that is ready to make the leap with scissors?
Well… not so fast! There are some important (and fun, less scary) steps you can take before handing them a pair of scissors. As a School-based Occupational Therapist serving students 2-22 years of age, cutting is one of the main skills I work on. Using scissors might seem like an easy, every day task. And for many – it is. However, it requires A LOT OF SKILLS! Hand strength, visual motor skills (using our eyes and hands together in a coordinated fashion), bilateral coordination (using both sides of our body together), visual attention, and so much more. Some children need some additional support and that is okay. That is why I am here to help. Here are some ways to work up to using scissors and to work on those school readiness skills.
Building Fine Motor Skills
This calls for a separate post, however building fine motor skills in general is essential and foundational. Let them be kids – let them squeeze things, build things, get dirty, manipulate tools, etc. Prior to even picking up scissors building hand strength and coordination through various play-based activities is the initial building block to being successful.
Play-doh
Use play-doh scissors first. This is a great introduction in a fun way (and more safe). Roll play doh into a “hotdog” and get them to chop up the hotdog using the scissors to serve on a plate to a customer like their favorite stuffed animal or action figure.
Bubble Tongs
I LOVE bubble tongs. They are a great addition to a simple sensory bin to practice scooping. They are a great tool for pre-scissor skills because they have the same finger placements as regular scissors. The child also is working on opening and closing the bubble tongs when scooping. These are an all around great item I keep handy in bag daily. You can find them here.
After some practice with various tools like play-doh scissors or bubble tongs, its time to introduce some safety scissors! There are good, safe options that will cut PAPER but not HAIR – like these ones here.
Practice Cutting With Many Objects
Make cutting fun! It does not have to be all about cutting paper. Consider allowing them to explore and cut the following:
- straws
- leaves/stems
- wrapping paper
- cooked noodles
- grass
So – if you are ready to take the leap to work on cutting skills… Below is a free handout you can print to guide you during this process.
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