Today we are going to focus on scissor skills. Scissors are one of the most frequently used “tools” that students use in school, especially in early elementary. To start, let’s look at how we should hold a pair of scissors. First, your thumb should go through the small hole on top. Your middle finger, ring finger and pinkey should go through the larger hole on the bottom. Your index finger should help guide the scissors by sitting underneath the handle. See the diagram below for a functional grasp.
I like the six star cutting below to remind our kids of the key concepts when they are cutting! Feel free to download the handout for reference later by clicking on the link below. It’s a great visual for our kids!
For my young preschoolers, snipping with scissors might be the best they can do at this time. Try snipping different types of paper or straws.
Once they have accomplished snipping they can try cutting paper in two pieces. Kids can cut all sorts of paper. Try using tissue paper, cardstock, notebook paper, construction paper, etc. As they get older, cut in the direction of a line, on a line, then to curved lines, simple shapes, etc. There are many websites that have printable cutting activities. Below are a couple of websites that have cutting activities for children. If you don’t have access to a printer, it’s always fun to cut out pictures from a coloring book or magazine. Draw shapes or pictures and then cut them out. Get creative and have fun!
https://www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/miscellaneous/scissor_skills.htm
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