Isn’t it safer to keep scissors away from kids? While it might seem like the safest option, overprotecting children can deprive them of valuable learning opportunities. By teaching kids the proper way to use scissors, parents can promote their fine motor skills while also supporting the development of handwriting and self-care abilities in the future.
Benefits of Learning to Use Scissors
Using scissors helps children develop fine motor skills by strengthening the muscles in their hands. This not only aids in learning to write but also enables kids to handle tasks like holding chopsticks, fastening buttons, and tying shoelaces. Additionally, mastering scissor use can build confidence, as children are better prepared to participate in art and crafts classes once they start school.
Three Key Abilities for Using Scissors
- Fine Finger Movements
Proper scissor use indicates that a child’s hand muscles are well-developed. This involves the precise coordination of the thumb, index finger, and middle finger to grip the scissors, while the ring and pinky fingers support the motion. The ability to open and close the scissors smoothly reflects this coordination. - Hand-Eye Coordination
To cut out a specific shape, children need to visually assess the size, boundaries, and lines of an object. This information is processed by the brain, which then directs the hand movements. Successful cutting relies on the seamless collaboration between eyes and hands. - Body Stability
The speed and precision of cutting are influenced by physical stability. While one hand operates the scissors, the other hand holds the paper, requiring coordination between both sides of the body. Sufficient strength in the shoulders, arms, and wrists is also necessary to sustain cutting motions without fatigue.
Proper Scissor-Holding Technique
Before the age of three, children’s hand muscles are still developing, so they may hold scissors incorrectly by placing both the index and middle fingers into the same handle loop. After age three, parents can guide children to adopt the correct posture: placing the thumb and middle finger in separate handle loops, with the index finger resting outside the handle for balance. The ring and pinky fingers should naturally curve inward to provide support.
How to Choose the Right Scissors for Kids
Adult scissors are not suitable for children as they may encourage improper gripping or lead to injuries. Here are some tips for selecting scissors:
- Smaller Handle Loops: Ensure the loops are small enough to prevent kids from placing multiple fingers in one loop, which could strain their wrists.
- Sharp Inner Blades: Scissors with sharp inner edges allow for smoother cutting, boosting children’s confidence as they learn.
- Rounded Tips: Opt for scissors with blunt tips to reduce the risk of accidental injuries when handling the tool.
By choosing the right scissors and teaching children the proper technique, parents can foster their fine motor development and equip them with lifelong skills in a safe and supportive manner.
