The ability to use scissors requires a lot of coordination and the use of fine muscles in the hand. It is something that requires lots of practice to master. Older toddlers and preschoolers are at a good developmental stage to practice cutting with scissors. Starting out, snips (cuts at a short length) are ideal. Later, you and your child can try more advanced cutting of longer lines and curved lines. The shorter the line, the easier it will be for your child starting out with scissors.  

 

What You Will Need: 

-child sized scissors 

-some paper with drawn lines (see photos) 

-close supervision is required! 

 

Engaging with Your Child 

There is certainly some potential for danger here if we don’t implement this activity with care and caution. Sitting next to your child, explain how scissors must only be used while seated and only to be used to cut paper. Next, show the strips of paper that he/she will be cutting and give some simple instruction, “Can you try to cut along this line? We are just practicing how to make little cuts.” Using scissors is very challenging- be patient and encourage your child, “This is difficult isn’t it? I can help you hold the paper while you make snips.” or “You’re cutting lots of snips. Let’s try some longer lines now, I think you are ready.”