Holding Scissors

Learning to use scissors is an important milestone in your child’s fine motor development. Not only does it strengthen small hand muscles, but it also improves hand-eye coordination and prepares children for writing, drawing, and everyday tasks. With a little patience and practice, your preschooler can develop this skill safely and confidently.

Why Scissor Skills Matter

Cutting with scissors helps children build the muscles in their hands and fingers, which are essential for gripping pencils, using utensils, and even buttoning clothes. It also teaches coordination, as children must guide the scissors with one hand while holding the paper steady with the other. These skills play a big role in school readiness and independence.

Tips for Getting Started

Choose the Right Scissors – Start with child-safe scissors that have rounded tips and are the right size for small hands. Some beginner scissors are spring-assisted, which makes them easier to open and close. A good choice for beginner scissors (with arc safety tips and an anti-pinch design) can be found on Amazon here.
Practice the Grip – Show your child how to hold the scissors with their thumb in the small hole and their fingers in the larger hole. Remind them that “thumbs up” is the correct position, with the thumb pointing toward the ceiling.
Start Simple – Begin by cutting playdough, straws, or strips of thin cardstock. These are easier to hold and snip than thin paper. Once your child gets the hang of it, introduce cutting along straight lines, then progress to curves and simple shapes.
Use Fun Activities – Encourage cutting by making it playful. Try snipping fringe on paper to make “grass,” cutting coupons, or creating collages with magazines. These activities keep children engaged and motivated.
Focus on Safety – Teach your child to always sit while cutting, keep scissors pointed down when carrying them, and only use scissors for paper or craft materials. Supervision is important at this age.

Encouragement Goes a Long Way

Scissor skills take time to master, so celebrate small successes. Praise your child’s efforts and remind them that it’s okay if the cuts aren’t perfect. The more opportunities they have to practice in a fun, low-pressure way, the more confident they’ll become.

View and download our helpful Kindergarten Readiness Checklist.

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