Scissor Skills — Cutting Lines
To develop continuous cutting skills and bilateral coordination through guided scissor practice.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Physical Development
- Learning area: Physical Development
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Cuts along straight lines
- Cuts along curved lines
- Uses correct scissor grip
- Coordinates both hands
Materials
- Child-safe scissors
- Printed cutting sheets with lines of varying widths
- Coloured paper strips
- Scissor skill progression cards
Instructions
CHECKING GRIP: Ensure correct scissor hold: thumb on top, two fingers in lower loop. Many children default to incorrect grips — gently correct early.
PROGRESSING SYSTEMATICALLY: Wide straight lines → narrow straight lines → gentle curves → zigzags → circles. Don't rush the progression.
TEACHING HAND POSITIONING: 'Feeding hand turns the paper; cutting hand opens and closes.' The non-dominant hand's role is just as important.
PROVIDING MOTIVATING CONTEXTS: 'Cut out the road for the cars!' 'Cut along the snake!' Purpose makes practice enjoyable.