Updated: Nov 25, 2021
Children in Reception will be learning to:
Develop their small motor skills so that they can use a range of tools competently, safely and confidently. Suggested tools: pencils for drawing and writing, paintbrushes, scissors, knives, forks and spoons.
Pipe cleaners/string/shoe laces
Objects that can be threaded e.g. beads, buttons, pasta, cheerios.
Children should be supervised during this activity and when wearing necklaces due to the choking/strangulation hazard.
We decided to make small necklaces that could be put on soft toys instead.
Thread the objects onto pipe cleaners or shoelaces to create necklaces. It is easier to thread the beads onto pipe cleaners because they hold their shape. I chose different shaped objects and we talked about which ones would be better for each of the toys e.g. the big beads might be too heavy for the small dinosaur.
Once your child has finished threading the objects, help them to tie the string or twist the pipe cleaners to finish the necklaces then put them on to some of their soft toys. You could extend the activity by setting up a jewellery shop.
Pincer Grasp – Using the index finger and the thumb to pick up the beads/pasta and slide them along the pipe cleaner strengthens the small muscles in their hands and is good practice for holding a pencil. Threading small objects is also a great way to get their fingers ready to do up the buttons on their school tops or the velcro/buckles on their shoes.
Hand-eye Co-ordination – Threading the beads on to the pipe cleaner requires their eyes and hands to work together. This skill will help children to form letters when they write.
If you have a go at this activity and share any photos on social media I would love to see them. Please tag @miniwritersclub and let me know how you get on.
Anna