How To Teach Kids To Cut Safely With Scissors

Kids love to cut with scissors, and it’s an important fine motor skill they need for preschool. So what are the best kid’s scissors?  I was thrilled to partner with Learning Resources during “Fine Motor Week” to create a video for them sharing all of the secret tips to teaching kids to cut with safety scissors I’ve learned as an occupational therapist over the last 20 years!

Tips To Teach Kids How To Cut Safely With Scissors

• Use Preschool Scissors With Dull Rounded Edges & A Hinge

Preschool scissors are magical scissors that can only cut paper! The hinge makes it simple for kids to learn the motion of how to open and close their hands. It also helps them to build endurance for little hands that get tired quickly. 

• Index Finger “Points The Way”

Don’t put the index finger in the scissor loop! Thumb and middle fingers go inside the loop. Place the index finger below the hinge for more control.

• Keep Your “Thumbs Up” & “Elbows At Side”

Lots of kids want to put their “thumbs down” toward the paper at first. Keep the “thumb up” or on top, and position the elbows on the table or at their sides.

• Just Snip Paper First

Start simple. Cut 1 inch strips of paper and let kids snip paper into a thousand pieces first before you try lines. This builds confidence and success while reducing frustration.

• Cut Straight Lines, Wavy Lines, Jagged Lines Next

• Then Try Circles, Squares & More Challenging Shapes

• Practice, Practice, Practice by Cutting Old Photos & Flyers

• Check Out The Video For More Tips!

This is a sponsored video created for Learning Resources. ToyQueen.com also participates in an Amazon affiliate program. Should you click on any links, a small commission may be provided to this website, at no additional cost to you.

Teaching kids how to use scissors can be a challenge. No one wants them to cut their clothes, fingers or even worse their hair! My mom still doesn’t let me forget the time I cut my own hair, I think most of us have done it at least once in our lifetime! But hopefully with these tips, you’ll find some ways to make it more enjoyable and less stressful.

The Learning Resources Trace Ace Scissor Skills Set featured in the video includes a pair of dull, hinged preschool safety scissors and lots of re-usable templates to create the lines necessary for kids to practice with.  There are some craft sheets included with small shapes to use to cut or just for inspiration. You can buy it on Amazon here.

Check out the Learning Resources website, it has tons of FREE printable, downloads and activities for you to use with your kids at home.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored video created for Learning Resources. ToyQueen.com also participates in an Amazon affiliate program. Should you click on any links, a small commission may be provided to this website, at no additional cost to you.