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Fine MotorPreschoolersToddlers721 Comments
Here are 5 different cutting activities to help build fine motor skills and practice using a scissors. Perfect and fun cutting activities for preschoolers.
Starting cutting activities is scary with young kids, I get that.
As a parent, you think of safety and that scissors are a dangerous thing for kids to be around.
I vividly remember the first week I took my oldest to daycare when he was three. The teachers there had him cutting right away and realized that he had no idea what to do.
I had never given him the chance to even hold scissors prior to that time.
Kids pick up cutting skills very quickly when you offer them the opportunity.
See the amazing tips for cutting activities for fine motor skills at the end of the post to get your child started!
We’ve tried many scissors along the road and I’ve always found that the Fiskars Pointed-tip scissors work the best for my kids.
I am exited to share with you five different cutting activities to help build fine motor skills and practice using a scissors!
Practice Scissors Skills with These 5 Cutting Activities for Preschoolers:
Take a pair of scissors outdoors and cut nature!
There is something incredibly appealing to cutting things up outside (kind of like breaking a rule, scissors don’t belong outside).
My kids love to be weed eaters and do the trimming around the yard (it makes it looks nice, and they’re learning cutting skills).
But you can also just set up a nature cutting station activity for preschoolers.
Go on a hunt around the yard for weeds, leaves, and flowers. Collect them in a bucket and cut away to their hearts desire!
You can then turn your nature cuttings into a nature suncatcher! Super pretty in the window!
Make a batch of play dough and cut cut cut!
Whip up a batch of homemade play dough, or use store-bought, and roll it into worms or snakes. That’s a fantastic fine motor skill right there.
Here are my favorite tips on how to make homemade play dough.
Let your child snip away with Blunt-tip scissors.
My youngest says he’s cutting up hot dogs when he snips away at the worms.
Don’t worry about whether your child is holding the scissors right when they’re starting, they’ll eventually catch on.
Just every once in awhile, change the scissors so it’s the right direction, and so that their thumb is up.
You can also do this with other doughs, like slime!
It’s really fun to let the slime start falling from a rack and have your child cut the slime before it touches the table.
Of course, cut paper for building fine motor skills!
Beginners might not be able to cut accurately, but they can still get practice in.
Strengthen fine motor with cutting straws, strings and ribbons.
Straws are a super easy beginner item to cut with your child’s Fiskars scissors. They’re thin, but yet stiff to not bend in the scissors.
It’s easy to set up a cutting station with my favorite pair of kids’ scissors, a tub or bowl, and some straws. This may also work well with pipe cleaners, however they take a little more strength to cut through.
Your child can then thread the straws to make a necklace if they’d like.
You can also do this with string, yarn or ribbon. This can be a little more advanced, depending on if it just bends in the scissors, or if it needs to be held taut. You can always hold it taut for your child as they snip.
To make this so your child can do it on their own, tape down one end to the table and have them hold the other end with their non-cutting hand. And then snip away!
It’s okay to play with your food and cut it!
Next time you have leftover spaghetti, grab a pair of Fiskars scissors and cut it!
Kids can also practice cutting with their scissors on hot dogs, any kind of cooked noodles, and even tortillas are easy for beginner cutters!
My kids always like their spaghetti cut up for dinner too, it’s okay to have them cut it up with a pair of scissors first. It gives them this great feeling of independence of being able to do it on their own.
New to cutting activities? How to start:
Start earlier than you think.
Preschoolers may start to show an interest in cutting around the ages of 3 or 4.
Introduce a scissors when they’re interested.
They may not have developed all the hand strength they need at this time, but its good to practice and introduce fine motor activities.
Start with tearing and ripping paper.
Seasoned early childhood teacher, Vanessa of Pre-K Pages suggests the order of which to expect and encourage kids to cut.
Starting with simple tearing paper, leading them through snipping and fringing, and finally getting to cutting on lines and beyond.
Read more and get the full order for learning to use a scissors.
Get the right scissors, for the right age!
Fiskars has scissors for every age. But go with whatever brands you feel comfortable with or have access to.
Try beginner scissors that are designed to spring open to help your child learn the motions.
Then move up to the Blunt or Pointed-tip scissors that I always highly recommend for preschoolers.
When kids get bigger, move on to the next stage with them. Maybe even try some creative art scissors
Have you given your child a chance to start cutting?
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Yvonne says
Great ideas
Jennifer Wilson says
Totally agree with the choice of scissors! We discovered a few years ago, through trial and error, that these really are the best, even in our three year old classes. Love your site, and keep those ideas flowing!
Exponiq Surgical says
great article
Gammy Char says
Love your activities
Tiffany Clementi Hammes says
Thank you for these great tips!
Dhwani says
My little one handled scissors when she was 24m old. She did surprisingly well.
Carol Krag says
Every child develops on a different timetable…..I feel that moms should give their children appropriate cutting activities (with supervision/assistance) when they show an interest in cutting. Sometimes it’s just snipping paper and then they’re not interested again for awhile….
Toni says
I start my preschoolers cutting paper plates. The plates are easier for them to cut than paper.
Stephanie says
She started cutting around two. I’m less nervous about it now. Cutting food with scissors is a great idea I hadn’t thought of.
Barb says
I tried my daughter with scissors around 18 months but she could not get the grip idea on the scissors. She is interested still at 23 months but still not quite there. I like your ideas for cutting food and other items-but I guess we will wait a bit longer to try again.
Nydia says
My 2 year old loves cutting Playdoh. Of course I only give her the plastic scissors for now but she doesn’t yet know the difference and her little muscles get a work out.
Deepthy says
I introduced scissors to my son when he turned 3 yrs old. I got a child safe scissors from Dollar store and showed him how to hold it and how to cut . He is almost 5 now and has cut playdough, straws etc . he can use the scissors with confidence and really likes his cut and paste artwork in his school and at home too…
Laura A says
I didn’t let my oldest use scissors until she was close to four. Now I let my two use them!
Kristie says
My oldest was 4 or so before he got real scissors. My next one was 2. She does great! And I’m sure the baby will be cutting before I know it!!
Amie says
Great ideas! Especially cutting nature! My 3 yr old loves to help cut flowers and herbs. I love Fiskars, bc they are like grown up scissors for little hands!
Anita says
I will introduce my toddler with scissors when she ll be 2 and a half years old
Evelyn says
I started my daughter with scissors at about 4years old as she was delayed in her fine motor skills and intellectual development also. I started her in the kitchen where she could cut dough and and herbs to start out. She had a blast helping with making food and the meal she would eat later. We also did the play dough and made many noodles to use on art projects later. Then She started on helping me cut out bookmarkers for her library at school where she used a table edge to help keep the line straight. and cutting out shapes to hang in her windows followed.
Jennifer says
At 27 months! An older relative gave my daughter a pair to play with and I’m so glad that I did not stop her from using them. She loved cutting and it was a great focusing activity. We continue to cut for fun and I plan to start her baby sister playing with scissors shortly after she turns 2 as well!
Kris says
My daughter is 2.5 and she loves cutting. I guess I’m brave.
Susan says
Ive been a little too nervous to give my child scissors just yet. Great article on a overlooked and important skill.
Cat Knickerbocker says
I started my children at age two years. I have used a variety of scissors to start with, sometimes spring loaded and sometimes the tiny scissors. We used similar activities to what you described as a starting point.
Olivvia says
we love to cut pictures from different magazines, glue them on white paper and tell stories
Rachel Schuler says
These are great ideas! My 5 and 2 year old girls love cutting play doh then most!
Margo says
Lauren started cutting when 2, using play dough scissors and moved on to paper. After 4-5 months she moved on to her clothing. Agh! She has several pj’s with slits cut into them.
Dawn Linn says
I started at about four years-old. We have had every thing from paper to doll hair and boy hair cut.
Its a learning skill.
Thanks for all your good ideas.
Jala Jenkins says
I don’t have my own kids, but as a Speech Therapist…I have LOTS of kiddos! Since I work with children that have disabilities, every child is different due to individual limitations.
Youngest? 3 ☺️ Thank you for giving this awesome gift to one lucky winner. At times I spend more money than I make! Schools/home health companies do not provide materials (from my experience) so I’ve accumulated therapy materials since I graduated college. I’m always looking for supplies! Hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas ?!?
Ashley says
Yes, both my boys started using scissors around age three. We started with something easy, like Play Doh :)
Julie McGuire says
When did you give, or have you given, your child a chance to start cutting?
I gave her a chance to cut with scissors when she turned two and a half years old. That’s when she developed great eye hand coordination and when her attention span increased. I may have been more nervous than she :-)
Kay Opper says
This package of scissors excite me. I am a grandma who has used Fiskars scissors ever since I remember. My grandmother bought me my first pair of pinking shears and sewing scissors when I first started sewing in 1971. She told me never to cut wire or paper with these particular scissors and I listened to her and still have them today, sharp as ever! Now I watch two 2 year olds and we use very blunt scissors to cut playdoh. They love to cut snakes made out of playdoh. I can’t wait until we can cut out various crafts when they get a little older. Thank you for this amazing giveaway that I would love to give to my grandchildren to grow up with.
Mercedes says
We actually started cutting activities around age 2! Not sure exactly how much it helped since my son has delays in his fine motor development, but I’m sure the extra exposure was beneficial!
Danielle says
I have an 18 month old and my oldest just turned 3 this month. I have’nt actually let him cut anything with scissors yet or even let him hold them. I have been to concerned with safety. I have gave it a thought though. After reading this post and seeing the different activitirs I definately think its time to buy a pair. I really want to try the beginner scissors that spring open. How neat!!!! I cant wait to try our own cutting activities!
Linda says
I have at age 2 yrs 2 mos. Still working on skill!
Rose Ellis says
My students start cutting in Prek, some as early as 3 years old.
Connie says
I started teaching my kids to start cutting around age two. We loved art kits and cutting their coloring projects. We made allot of art projects for birthdays and holidays starting at a young age.
Marie says
My daughter started last year in her 2 year old class just for exposure of cutting and getting the idea of opening and closing. I am an OT so we started at home with fun cutting tasks like cutting straws, playdoh snakes. Now we are onto cutting lines. :-)
Briana says
I haven’t yet given my daughter a chance to start cutting, but plan to start soon!
barnolds barnes says
I think I gave my son a chance to start cutting at 2 or 3 years old. Maybe 2.5? He is very careful though so I wasn’t worried. My daughter is 18 months. Haven’t let her try yet but I’m sure she’d love to give it a shot.
Linda Marr says
I love all the great ideas for cutting practice. My grandsons like to snip edges of newspaper, but are having a difficult time holding scissors properly.
Marlene says
I love providing cutting opportunities. Straws are probably my favorite as the visual aspect of them flying around and the auditory aspect of the popping sound when cut provide a multi-sensory experience that motivates further cutting ideas.
Michelle says
I didn’t give my child cutting practice til she was in my 3 yr old preschool class. I know our sitter did give her some practice before then. Looking back I wish I would’ve done it a little sooner. With my son I will work on it more at home.
dheera says
I started working with my Kid when he turned 3 year old , and as part of the activity i first asked him to cut the paper in any shape he wanted and how ever .
The second level that i have begun is cutting noodles and dough which is soft for the child and also interesting for the child .
The third level which i have started is drawing few shapes on the chart paper and ask him to cut according to the shape for example using simple shapes like circle or leaves etc .
Kristi says
This year for Christmas, I had my five kids pick each other’s name as a secret Santa. My four-year-old daughter got her older brother’s name so we decided to make a homemade Lego board game for him. My two-year-old son was sitting watching us as we are making it and the next thing I knew he had Mary’s scissor and he was cutting out the board pieces the best he could. So I guess today my two-year-old learned how to use a scissor! He actually did really well!
Jennifer Boice says
Love it! I started letting my kids cut with plastic scissors for play dough around 18 months and we slowly worked up from there!!
Rachael says
I just introduced my son to scissors at just over 3yrs old. He enjoys it. I have had him cut old magazines and heavy wrapping paper. His favorite thing right now is to cut tiny pieces.
Valerie says
Our kids, grands, & greats have been encouraged to cut from 2-3 years old — as soon as they can hold a round-tipped scissors. HOWEVER, it’s a VERY long time before they are allowed to touch my “good” scissors! ;)
Leslie Wootton says
Hi. I introduced my daughter to scissors before she entered preschool. I’m an occupational therapist, so I was comfortable doing this with kids. Her teachers have always remarked on what a great cutter she is. I love Fiskars! They have always been the scissors I choose professionally and as a parent. They make learning to cut with scissors easy!
Stephanie says
Hi. I introduced my daughter to scissors before she entered preschool. I’m an occupational therapist, so I was comfortable doing this with kids. Her teachers have always remarked on what a great cutter she is. I love Fiskars! They have always been the scissors I choose professionally and as a parent. They make learning to cut with scissors easy!
Sibyl Dawn Pomeroy says
My child is only 18 month old so I haven’t tried it yet. Now that I read all these fun ideas I will give it a try!
Cheryl says
I am Home Daycare and we start giving the children scissors by 3 years old. Under supervision children can cut a variety of things and helps with hand eye coordination. By the way, Fiskars are the best, they always cut unlike many other child scissors. Thank you
Stephanie says
I let my kids start cutting at 2, but we don’t do it all that often. This post reminded me it’s been a while and I should get the scissors out!
Marjorie says
I first let my daughter start cutting when she was about 3. I just gave her a pair of child safety scissors and some paper with pictures. She had a great time with it.
Tanisha says
I love these ideas. I will definitely be using them with my little ones.
Kimber says
I gave my children the chance to start cutting early, probably around two. I put together a cutting book, pieces of paper from magazines, coloring books etc. that they could use to try and cut out their favorite pictures. It’s been fun to see them practice their cutting skills on their books.
Kristin says
Started with my boys at preschool age – wish I had seen this post for my oldest but some great ideas for my two yr old. Thanks!
sheila says
on the first day of school exploring with the play dough snipping the play dough to work their fine motor skills
Tavia says
When my son was around 4 years of age.
LaShanda says
My baby girl started using scissors around 3 1/2. She loves to cut anything actually, paper, tissue, the tags from new clothing. She hasn’t tried cutting noodles yet. I will need to create the opportunity for her to do that.
Melodie says
I am a nanny to 2 precious little girls, in addition to being a mother to 3 grown daughters and grandmother to a 3 year old granddaughter and an 18 month old grandson. I am also a former first grade teacher, so I am very aware that there are many young children that go to school without any experience cutting with scissors. Thank you so much for providing many valuable resources that work with this skills and so many others, too.
Melodie says
I forgot to add that I started the children I nanny at 2-1/2 years of age. One of them is 3 and the other will be 3 in a few weeks. The 3 year old is already pretty accomplished at cutting, but the younger one is so independent that she often avoids instruction. We’ll keep working on it- she’ll get there eventually!
Shauna Ballinger says
I think my little fella first held a pair of scissors around age 3. As is the norm around our humble abode, my husband panicked while I let our P Bear go to town on a pile of junk mail. I had read an article about cutting helping motor skills and I’m sort of a “try and see” kind of parent, so we tried and saw it was awesome! Hooray for scissors!!! Hooray for Fiskars!!!!
Pam says
I teach 4 year olds and I usually start within the first couple of weeks of school. By the end of the year they are usually pretty good with scissors.
Victoria Bounchareune says
These are such great tips! I’m a nanny to a 3 year old now and when his parents started giving him scissors at 2, I didn’t understand why at such a young age. I knew it would take him awhile to catch on but to my surprise he eventually did! He practices weekly with paper, to keep him busy while his dad is making breakfast. :)
Sarah says
I gave my daughter a pair of scissors in her Christmas stocking when she was not quite 2 years old.
Dorothy Runnels says
Amazing ideas. Have already been dough cutting and straw cutting with my three year old class of preschoolers. Thanks for additional ideas.
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Leah Sweetman says
I love watching my children (now ages 7 and 5) cut different papers, yarn (and other things used for tying), and foil and see what kind of interesting items that they build! They both started cutting at age 3, and had plenty of practice in preschool. I liked it when their teachers gave them curvy lines for them to trace, and then to cut. Now they are both pretty experienced cutters, and the older one is even interested in wrapping gifts for his friends’ birthdays.
Alicia Hilton says
When I taught my son sequencing.I had him cut out He enjoyed cutting. Thank you.story words and pictures connected to the story to put them in order on a work sheet. I had him cut out in shapes and glue them to a paper.
Marilyn Kitchens says
My children started cutting in old magazines and catalogs.
Colette Norris says
We work on cutting but his fine motor skills are so behind that it takes lots of work for me to feel safe with him even holding the scissors. Blunt scissors are a blessing but he wants to use “big boy” scissors. :(
Tina Ewing says
I started my own children cutting at age three. I teach 3/4 year olds at our preschool.
Jennifer says
I offer 3-4 year olds opportunities to cut nearly every day! I also recommend use of plastic scissors, such as can be found in Play Dough activity kits, which allays parents’ concerns regarding safety.
I love Fiskars scissors as they are the highest quality of scissors, especially for little hands.
Moira McAn says
My own son Cory started doing almost everything early, probably because I am a Pre-K Special Educator (for children with disabilities, and spent several hours a week “trying out” all my ideas and the activities planned for my students. Most of the things we did with beginning scissors skills are mentioned in the above article, such as snipping playdough “snakes”, cooked spaghetti, paper scraps, string, yarn and ribbon, as well as straws (for collages and “art”). We did this as early as one year old.
One idea I did not see mentioned above was using colorful junk mail, glossy advertising fliers and the like as a source of pictures, words and letters to cut out for collages, to make greeting cards, etc. We started doing this (with some help) as early as 18mos. old. Later I had him practice cutting “on the line” (almost) by cutting out square, rectangular or circular pictures from junk mail , or even just cutting beneath a line of print from advertising letters with NO pictures. Junk mail is free, and you were just going to toss it into the trash anyway!
Thank you, Jaime, for your fantastic website/blog. You are THE BEST!
Michelle Z. says
Christmas is the best time for cutting projects! Both my son and my daughter love cutting out snowflakes to hang on our wall every year. My daughter was two the first time she created her own pattern and I helped her cut it out (we used safety scissors for obvious reasons). It ended up being the best snowflake pattern of the bunch!
Katie says
We started cutting at around 16 months. He loves his scissors but is quick to point out the differences between his and mine:)
Genna says
I introduced “kid-friendly” scissors when my kiddos were 2.
LeahL says
I found some 100% plastic scissors shaped like bunnies in a bin at my school. I teach high school so I have no idea why they were here. My son was about 2.5 (like many posters mentioned) when I let him try to cut paper from old magazines.
Alexander says
My son just turned three. I recently began to stimulate his crafty side and he is obsessed. We cut, glue, tape, rip, ruffle all that we can to make some pretty awesome things for the holidays!
Amanda says
Such fun ideas can’t wait to share with my 18 month old!
Dotti says
As a teacher I have seen many students entering preschool with no experience using scissors. I encourage parents to give their children safety scissors with materials that they can practice with, such as old greeting cards or play-dough. Using those fine motor skills can give young children confidence in their ability and set them on the path to success!
Caryn says
We start using scissors prior to 3 years. Their curiosity to use them has usually started when we’re outside trimming plants, bushes and trees. The “big” scissors outside, with the help of dad or mom, are much more fun (and destructive ?) for the boys too. I love the idea of having them cut weeds and grass as practice!!!
Cindy says
I had my children start cutting from the age of 1 1/2 to 2 years old with handle scissors, using play dough, bread dough, ect. Then they moved on to stiff paper (easier to grip) at about 2 1/2 to three years old. Love the many developmental scissor options available for my kids in their early years and my special needs students at school.
Jennie says
I gave my daughter experiences with scissors when she was 2.5. Now I engage my 3.5 year old grandson in scissor activities and have for about a year. I plan to do the same with my one year old grandson when he is a bit older. They both have great finger dexterity for their age. Thanks for the cutting ideas, love the creativity of them!
Heather says
I let my daughter at age 2 years of ago start using scissors to cut scrap paper into shapes. She has now at age 4 years start cutting snowflakes out of scrape paper.
Nola says
I let my kids cut at age two or three. They cut paper or play dough. I think it’s important to give them those skills at an early age because I know there are so many children who go to school never having used a scissors. It is so important to their fine motor skills.
Amanda says
These are great ideas! I can’t wait to try them with my son!!!
Cindy says
I love cutting activities. We introduce scissors in a structured way around 3 years old. But whenever a child shows interest is the best time to start. We say a little poem… “Open , shut, open, shut, this is the way we make the scissors cut.” To keep correct hand position when cutting, we sometimes place a small sticker on the child’s thumb of their cutting hand. They are to see the sticker when cutting. Lots of little tips to help the experience be positive.
:)
Amanda says
I have not given my toddler a pair of scissors yet, but I think he is ready for it now! I want to try the state cutting and magazine cutting activities listed here! What excellent ideas!!! I am excited!!!
Jamie says
I started both of my children very young, around two. It took a little while for them to get the concept but they love to cutting in general
Lisa says
I had my grandson start at 3 , cutting, paper towels and scrap paper
Jamie says
Both of my children were very young around two. It took a little while for them to understand the concept but they just loved the cutting in general
Kari says
My daughter showed an interest in cutting at age 2.5. She uses a pair of Fiskars that were mine when I was in elementary school, and they’re still in perfect shape. She picked up cutting very easily. She is now 3.5 and has a pair on her desk that she can use any time she likes. She is very independent and safe with them. She loves cutting out small pictures. Her cutting skills amaze me and are better than many 5 year olds I know, because she is allowed to have so much practice.
Jennifer Jones says
Yes! Both of my kids were introduced at age two. We love cutting pictures out of magazines and creating collages right now.
R Jenkins says
All three of my girls love to cut things, and anything to do with arts & crafts. I was a bit hesitant to let my first child use scissors, but I started working with her by age three or four. But by kid #3 my youngest was using scissors as soon as she could understand to open and close her hand to make them work. She is almost three and a pro at making “confetti”!! She will spend hours just cutting paper into tiny pieces. And yes, those parents scared of the self-inflicted hair cuts…they do happen….but hair grows back and life goes on!! Fine motor skills are more important and a bit of missing hair at this young of an age :)
Alaina Laine says
My son started cutting play dough around 3 years old. A couple months later he started cutting construction paper and paint swatches. They’re perfect for crafts! He’s so proud to cut on the lines. :)
Genna says
My daughter is 21 months, and I haven’t started her on any cutting projects yet.
Amy says
My daughter just turned 2 & I would love to start cutting things with her! Thanks for the giveaway:)
Margarita Headings says
We haven’t found good scissors for my 3y.o yet. Would like to try those :)
Tracey says
I started my child at 3 using play-dough
Erin says
With my first son I avoided letting his use scissors because it made me nervous but then he struggled in pre-school with a few fine motor skills including scissor use. With my second I’ve already given him more chances, specifically with play-doh. Thank you for the awesome post with great ideas.
Penny Bright says
My kids were given the opportunity to cut at about age 3. As a 4K director in a public school district I’m shocked when kids have never cut before and parents say, “I would never give my child a scissors at home.”
Jenn says
My little one started using scissor at 2.
Susan Nault says
My preschool is for 3- 5 year olds so we start exposing them right away. We start with tearing and then talk about how could we fo this easier. I bring our all sorts of things to cut, paper, leaves, yarn, cottonballs, foil, and of course we always talk about safety and things we should never cut. Almost everything we cut leads to some sort of other project, art, science, sewing, math, measuring. I love using the scissors that have shaped blades. Its awesome to watch them use their own ideas for what to cut out and make. We couldn’t live without them. Thank you! Bouse Elementary Preschool
Brenda says
Snowflakes out of paper
Solomiya Shpak says
My daughter showed the interest in cutting when she was 2.5 years old. She loves to cut everything – paper, fabric, grass!
Jane Goodwin says
I have done family childcare for over 20 years. I usually start my children around 2 yrs old, some a little sooner depending on their development. Thanks, would love to win the give away for my daycare.
Susan Fava says
I start at about 3, cutting straws, heavy paper and other things over a “cutting box”.
Heather says
I started cutting skills with my son at 4. I feel I should have started a little earlier with fine more skill activities just to get him ready to cut. Sometimes as homeschool moms we forget simple task such as cutting, tying shoes etc…. I teach a class at our homeschool group and I have been shocked to see how many kindergarteners haven’t ever picked up a pair of scissors.
Merry Christmas!
Tamara Parson says
I can’t wait to try some of these great fine motor and cutting activities!
Jennifer Nixon says
I haven’t started yet my son will be 2 in febuary
Jennifer Nixon says
We haven’t found good scissors for my 3y.o yet. Would like to try those :)
Sammantha says
I haven’t made the time to let my 2.5 year old cut with scissors at home yet. They started at his old daycare at 2, but it closed a few months ago, and I’m sure his new daycare doesn’t have the same policy. But we’re going to break out the playdough after Christmas and give it a go!
Carolyn Fisher says
We are just getting ready to start cutting. My granddaughter is showing a lot of interest in using scissors. I want to teach her the correct way right from the beginning . This website will be a great resource.
Davin Zarate says
My 2 1/2 year old picked up a pair of her sisters scissors and just started cutting! haha. But I have since decided on fun ways to let her cut. She loves cutting snowflakes right now for Christmas and because she loves painting too they get a little color…and lots of glitter, glitter is big at our house!
Jennifer Nixon says
Each of my 4 kids started to practice cutting around the age of 2 1/2 years old.
Lennie Dusek says
I teach a weekly early childhood program at the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock, AR. I give the kids opportunities to use scissors as often as possible. We incorporated scissors into the program last week and will again next week!
Bonnie Sansone says
We homeschool…around the table I have 2 1 1/2 year old twins, 2 3 1/2 year olds and a 6 year old. When Jayden is cutting so are the others…not scared to try anything. Love seeing their faces when they cut through paper, straws etc. Busy at our house..messes everywhere but lots of hands on time with Nana. The 2 sets of twins love coming to my house to have school. We are learning alot and making lasting memories that will last a lifetime. One of the youngest twins has Noonan’s Syndrome and had a stroke when he was 3 months old. He needs alot of hands on motor skill help but is doing great! I believe that you do not treat them differently…he is way above what the drs. said he would ever do…
Kaori S says
My son showed interest in using scissors when he just turned 3 years old.
Stacey P says
I absolutely love these activities. As a teacher of students with many fine motor skills it gives a wide variety of ways that they can practice their cutting skills. I really love the cutting the grass/cutting nature activity.
Lynn says
I started my daughter at 2.5 with her first playdough set of scissors. By the time she was 3 I gave her a toddler pair to start cutting paper. At 5 years of age now, she LOVES to cut! She is really starting to show her creativity with cutting shapes and making little accessories for her dolls and their houses. My son started at 3 and is still finding it a bit challenging to cut paper, but we keep practicing! Thanks for your post. I like the straw idea!
Susan S says
What great ideas! I usually start teaching my kids how to cut when they’re 4, but maybe I’ll start earlier with some of these activities! I’m still going to keep the scissors on the top shelf though, we’ve had too many bad haircuts ?
Miss Kristen says
I’m a pediatric OT. I see many children who are 4-5 years old and have never held scissors. It is important to start early. Supervision is the key. I began scissor use with my children at age 2. The ideas listed in this post are wonderful starting points for scissor use.
Also, if you’re nervous about giving scissor to a small child start with squirt bottles, motorically it is the same motion.
Jessica Staubs says
We gave my son scissors around age three. I have always loved activities that hone fine motor skills and he loves cutting things. Grass, paper, playdoh, foods when he helps in the kitchen. He’s in kindergarten now and I can really see how it has helped his hand eye coordination. And he can cut some pretty awesome shapes for crafts in art projects!!!
Heidi Luokkanen says
I run a home daycare so I work with all ages. The kids are exposed to cutting and sissors at a young age si they take interest pretty early. Our goal is to get them practicing when they are able to understand the safety instructions that go along with using sissors. For most this is around 2 1/2 to 3.
Debbie says
Even though, God didn’t bless me with children. I feel that I have many children. I work with kids at church fr over
30 years. Due to back issues, I am only able to teach the 3 year old Sunday School class. I love Jesus and am a born again believer. Enough about me, to answer your question about letting kids cut with scissors. Sometimes, I take scissors (kid safety , of course) paper is provided blank or patterned, or an activity page with lines to cut. The kids
really like to cut. Some of them, have ever used scissors at home.
Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday Jesus.
Miss Debbie
I will be out of the office until 12/20/16.
Mary Mayo says
My granddaughter is 15 mos. old and your website has given me many ideas to try. The tip about putting the ribbon in a bottle is a good one. I used cotton balls , easy and a good one for church when we want to be quiet but busy. It is not an activity for a child left alone with as they might put them in their mouth. I always look for opportunities to introduce things as she becomes more ready. Wish had a website like this to go to when my children were small. Thank you so much.
Debbie says
As a mother, aunt, and now grandmother, I have enjoyed the sheer joy, determination and success of a plethora of children as they master the skill of cutting. I have always had a variety of various types of scissors on hand and am very happy to report that over the past 41 years, no one has succumbed to the temptation to perform a self administered haircut. There have always been many things to cut, age appropriately of course, from food, to magazines, etc. Have always kept safety scissors in my kitchen drawer and the children have learned to grab these when the need to cut something open. The kids turn to scissors to cut open everything from granola bars to crackers and even the very young ones seem to enjoy this independence to do so.
Abby H says
We started cutting play dough when my son was two. Now he is five and just learned to cut snowflakes!
Linda M says
I would say I start my dwycare kids around 2 years old. They love to cut play dough and the grass outside
Maureen Riley says
I think that any time between 2 – 2 1/2 years old is the perfect time frame to offer your child beginning cutting activities.
Rebekah rodaniche says
I let my daughter start cutting with scissors at age 2 1/2. She was so into art and crafts and seemed to have the ability to figure it out.
Ashik Kannan says
I gave my daughter scissors at Age 3. She is 5 now and has become adept in cutting with different types of scissors designed for kids. She also works on Projects for her Kindergarten class
Jennifer Barney says
We haven’t started using scissors quite yet, but she’s showing interest! These will be some great ideas to try!
Stacy says
My kids started cutting at 3 years old.
Carobeth Tucker says
My son is only one, but I’ll let him start practicing when he is around 2 very supervised so that he doesn’t get to kindergarten unable to use scissors!
Jennie says
I am a grandma that helps take care of my grandson who just turned 2 in October.
We do lots of things together, but I have not introduced scissors to him yet.
The Friskars scissors sound wonderful and if I don’t win I will ask Santa to leave a pair in his stocking.
Wish me luck
Holly Moriglioni says
Scissors in the sensory table with material added each day has always been a go to for kiddos learning how to use scissors. I start the first few days with foam sheets, paper, card stock… using the observation-assessment cycle, I add materials according to skill level and change out types of scissors. Everyone can find both success and challenge while working together. We save the scraps for collage or eventually add water to the bin of varied clippings to see what sinks and floats. When interest in the sink/float exploration ends we put the sensory bin outside, let if freeze and then excavate the snips of paper , pieces of foam, straws, etc out using toothbrushes, Popsicle sticks, and a salt/ sand combo.
Such fun and conducive to talking, building relationships and scaffolding learning. It’s the child version of the water cooler.
Amruta says
my daughter got her first pair of scissors at age 3. Initially it was hard for her to hold the scissors and cut continuously. But I was very surprised to see how fast she progressed.
Deb Bontadelli says
I started my kids using scissors at around 3 years old.
Julie McGuire says
My 3 year old helps me cook. She uses her scissors to cut the herbs/ oignons from the garden and then cuts them into smaller pieces before putting them in the plate we are preparing.
Liz Gabor says
Glad I read the comments and saw that age 2 is ok to start this. Thank you for the idea of something constructive to do with my toddler!
Christine says
Good morning! My 5 year started cutting when he was about 3. My 2 year old is about to turn 3 next month, and he’s had SOME cutting practice, but he gets frustrated when he can’t control his hand enough. He’ll definitely be doing more cutting exercises while he’s 3. :)
Bridget schild says
I start using sisors with my kiddos around 2 years. We use kid sisors and just have fun. Then as you see improvement I ask them to start following lines. It’s funny, my second learned how to cut because I was the box top collector for our school and they had to be trimmed. We would sit and trim them together.
Bridget schild says
I start using sisors with my kiddos around 2 years. We use kid sisors and just have fun. Then as you see improvement I ask them to start following lines. It’s funny, my second learned how to cut because I was the box top collector for our school and they had to be trimmed. We would sit and trim them together.
Bridget schild says
I start using sisors with my kiddos around 2 years. We use kid sisors and just have fun. Then as you see improvement I ask them to start following lines. It’s funny, my second learned how to cut because I was the box top collector for our school and they had to be trimmed. We would sit and trim them together.
Kristine Hoskins says
I started all three of my children cutting at an early age, between 2 and 3. It is so important to show them how to use scissors. We cut food, playdough, fabric, and of course paper! Now I think it backfired on me a bit when my son started using scissors to cut things he wasn’t supposed to cut – his rug, his comforter, his clothes, etc. But it gave us an opportunity to have another conversation about WHAT it’s okay to cut and WHEN!
Samantha Kirkpatrick says
My 2.5 year old started cutting about a year ago, I started with foam sheets but decided straws worked better. He can cut paper now, but still hasn’t got the hang of anything accurate. He loves to cut!
Alison Myers says
My daughter LOVES cutting! She will sit for an hour or more sometimes and cut paper into little tiny pieces that then become “tickets” or “sprinkles” or whatever her imaginatin is into that particular day. She is three and a half now, and I first introduced scissors when she was about one and a half, starting earlier than you think is definitely a good strategy for learning to use scissors! She can hold the scissors correctly, cut large circles and straight lines and really stays very close to the line these days. Mostly she just loves to play with cutting, I think noodles and play doh are next for sure!
Valerie says
Interesting. I probably didn’t give them scissors to play with until 4-ish. My kids cut holes in their own shirts, though! :) We should have done more cutting when they were younger! Oh well.
Vicki Kyle says
Love this site!
Renee Smith says
We haven’t started cutting yet since Sydney is only 15 months. We have been tearing paper and seeing what other things will tear. I love yo craft so I can’t wait to teach her to use sissors.
Nikki Thuesen says
We started with scissors at Barnes and Noble’s story time. I then got my oldest her own scissors and have been bringing it out to make all our holiday crafts each season. She even helped me wrap some presents last week and then used some left over scraps to make confetti and practice writing her name.
Jolene Rosene says
I also made the mistake of sending my firstborn to preschool without allowing him to use scissors at home. I quickly learned that this made his first few months more of a challenge than was necessary. My biggest holdup was a combination of new Mom fear, and not being able to find scissors that felt safe for him to try. I discovered Fiskars for my second child, and she started when she was about 2. She was well prepared for school! Fast forward 9 years, and believing that I would have no more children and surprise! My third child was born, and I continue to allow her freedom of exploration with Fiskars because I trust their products.
Julie McGuire says
I believe teaching children to use scissors is very important. Scissors can be to benefit or disaster. If given the proper skills in using scissors not only do they build motor skills but being a responsible young person. Being able to work with scissors on daily basis can contribute for life experiences . There could be good experiences and bad. They can be used for emergencies. I too teach small people the use of scissors. So let’s see how many good things we can use scissors and give children the same chance .
Tracy Melvin says
My daughter had delayed muscle development so, as a way to build her muscles, we introduced her to scissors and cutting at about 2 1/2 yrs old.
Julie McGuire says
Your devotion is awesome and l thank.
Laura Diaz says
Start when your child is old enough to distinguish between what is okay to cut and what is not! Don’t cut hair, curtains, your brother!
Louanne Mason says
I started all my girls cutting with playdough. From there they moved on to random paper. Then we used the Kumon cutting books for preschoolers to learn control.
Ali V says
I encourage my boys to cut with scissors at young age. i gave them paper and they went to town, It was messy and they developed their fine motor skills. We make paper snowflakes each year. They love it.
Jaymee Dow says
Not yet, he’s only 20 months old, but this is full of great ideas! Thanks for sharing!
Julie McGuire says
I was a nanny for years and years. I would get small children’s scissors and when whenever we did crafts I put out scissors. Some children were immediately drawn to them and enjoyed cutting things. Other’s tried scissors but had a hard time, so asked for assistance. I think using scissors is a great motor skill so the sooner they have access the better!
Cait
De Anna R. says
I started my son when he was 2 years old. We started out cutting playdoh and patterns. He is 3.5 years old now and using scissors is one of his favorite activities.
Julie McGuire says
I let me kids use scissors at the age of 3 to cut playdough!
Colleen says
My son is 20 months and I haven’t let him cut things yet. But he is VERY interested in watching me use scissors.
Janelle says
We started with scissors at the age of 2, almost 3. He just turned 4 and he is a pro!
Brandy Lindley says
My daughter starting showing interest in scissors around 2 1/2 yrs old. She’s my first child and I thought maybe she was too young but she was continuously adimant about using my scissors so I finally bought her a pair. Even though she doesn’t cut on the lines she still treats cutting like she’s doing a very important job. I’m glad I did not withhold this learning tool from her.
Jessica Benitez says
My son didn’t take interest in cutting until after he turned 3, and my daughter took interest at around 2 years old.
Lisa Mills says
My sons 3 in April and thought it was too early for scissors! Not anymore! Thanks!
Lori Wyler says
I introduced cutting around 4 years old. It was fun to cut food ad magazine pages.
Lily says
We started using scissors when DS turned 3 – safety ones of course!
Helena Coates says
I started cutting with my kids when they were two years old. I made sure to get them scissors appropriate for their size/age and then I let them go at it. Just cutting papers in any way. Practicing holding the scissors correctly. Their were so many random pieces of paper all over my house. But I loved watching them try to cut. Sometimes it was frustrating for them and sometimes they loved it and wanted more. As they grew we developed new skills by working on straight lines, curvey lines, lines with different angles and they were cutting out their own projects. It was a great experience.
Beth says
Started my girls at age 2 with the Fiskars toddler scissors. We also tried scissors at the library, but with twins I did not leave them out to explore on their own since mayhem can ensue. We have regularly been using safety scissors since about 3 1/2.
Brianna Morrow says
I started letting my two oldest cut when they were 3 and entered pre-k!
Rachael Lyon says
We love your site.
Roseanne Locklear says
I am a first year teacher and my children are special needs. I have been working with them since school started in August. We have made snowflakes and paper Christmas ornaments for their parents. I would really love to win this for my class. We are out of supplies since hurricane Matthew came through. Thank you for this chance.
Sincerely,
Roseanne Locklear EC Teacher
Rosenwald Elementary, Fairmont, NC
Oksana Kunina says
My oldest started cutting late, around 4, or even later, my middle one right at 3, and only with encouragement from his craft instructor at community centre. I believe he still remembers that craft class as big gulp of freedom: that was first activity without parents participation and right away he started doing previously no- no activities( cutting with scissors!!!)- no wonder, he never had separation anxiety unlike other kids in his group.
With my youngest I was already equipped with playdough and safe scissors, and, most important, knowledge that cutting IS for small kids, so we started with playdough at 2.3 quickly moving to paper . So far , I see that my youngest fine motor skills are the best out of three, however, I don’t know if it because of cutting or cutting happened because he had better ability than his siblings….
Stephanie Wilcox says
My daughter (just turned 5) loves to cut anything. The first time I gave her scissors was about a year ago. She thought she was so grown up. She made a paper chain this year. But her favorite thing to do is to cut squares and make little notes for her family members.
Brandy Lindley says
Age 2!
Angela Mason says
I think it depends on the child. My first was able to handle them by age 3. My second one I didn’t trust enough for that, I don’t think he had a pair of scissors in his hand till age 6. Then I had to take them back from him because he was cutting up my dresses to make blankets for his sisters dolls. Trust is the ultimate clue in this decision.
Cecilia Harris says
I haven’t given my child scissors yet, she’s still a little young.
Kristina says
I remember having the same experience when sending my oldest to preschool for the first time at 4 yrs old. I had never thought to put scissors in her had at 3 years old!! So when the next kiddo came around, I started at 3!
Christie Brand says
The first time one of my children used scissors was around the age of three. We would use scissors to cut play dough, leaves and grass. We started out on simple things before we attempted to cut paper. My youngest daughter loves to help me cut papers out for my class. She loves to use scissors for everything that can but cut .
justine hayes says
My daughter has pretty good fine pitot skills developing at 2.5, so we do tearing and I have let her use scissors with my assistance on occasion!!
Tara Lancaster says
I’ve done the cutting play doh as well as the noodle cutting with my youngest. My oldest has always been very cautious with her scissors and does great at 5 years old cutting shapes.
Leigh Messner says
I started my daughter around 2. It’s important to note that development of cutting skills starts earlier than that through weight bearing, crossing midline and using both sides of the body. As an occupational therapist I worked with my daughter and the kiddos I work with at tearing paper, lacing beads, cutting play-dough, etc early on before cutting paper. I used plastic scissors as well as loop scissors and then graduated to spring loaded scissors. We also put a piece of paper with a smiley face on it as a reminder to keep the scissors in the correct position.
Marian Jacoby says
If I didn’t read Hands On, I wouldn’t have considered introducing my 2-year-old granddaughter to “cutting”. I gave her a small pair of childproof cutting scissors, and she did great! While her fingers are still trying to coordinate, she made little cuts all around a piece of construction paper! Love your website. :)
Marla Reeb says
I give them to them and sit with them. We cut everything, ribbon, grass and wrapping paper to name a few.
June Henderson says
Started cutting at 2 1/2 We made the biggest pile of confetti!!
Leigh Messner says
As an occupational therapist I started my daughter cutting fairly early…right around 2 years, but the development of her skills started way earlier than that. We worked on two handed activities such as tearing paper, crossing midline as soon as she was sitting up. Tummy time is so incredibly important as well as well as weight bearing through the hands. We started with loop scissors to get the concept of opening and closing the scissors and then graduated to spring loaded scissors. We had so much fun with seasonal activities and just cutting random other items such as play-dough, coupons and even grass.
Renee Coyne says
My son started cutting at 2.5 and loved chopping pieces of construction paper. He had to hold them with both hands to open and close at first so it was so adorable to see his little gears turning as he tried to figure out how to stabilize the paper and cut at the same time.
Jenny says
I have four children and all but the last one has learned to use scissors. She just turned 3 so I plan to start out small here after the holiday craziness is over. In a class of four and five year olds that I tutor once a week I’ve been including some cutting exercises. And it’s been a joy to watch them grow in confidence over the beginning of the year when they struggled and didn’t want to do it. Now they look forward to the time where I have a cutting exercise and can’t wait to show me how well they did. Makes me feel proud that I’ve been able to be a part of building up their confidence in themselves.
Marilyn Brooks says
This post is right on time for me. My daughter (2.5 years old) has just started showing an interest in scissors and wanting to cut. Since she stays home with me every day, I had no clue where to start or what to do or if it’s even safe for her. Thank you so much for the ideas and the chance to enter the giveaway.
Many thanks,
-Marilyn
Christina Conrad says
I let my children use safety scissors when they turned two.
Alla Riley says
This is absolutely amazing! I always admired someone’s patience and aptitude while in company of your little one. Thank you very much for sharing
Tasha Miller says
I started my son with scissors very occasionally around age 2 and a half. He just turned 4 and we regularly do cutting activities at home for him to practice! Helps me with coupons or cuts out his own drawings!
Trisha Cooper says
I first gave my children scissors to use at the age of 2 at the table with supervision. They both loved to cut paper and magazines.
Amy Mohraz says
My children have all cut play dough with “real” scissors when they were 1 1/2 or so … once we really got into play dough. It always started with using them with 2 hands and then gradually they got the hang of it!
Julie McGuire says
I am going to introduce cutting to my 3 year old son next week. Just need to purchase the right scissors.
Sarah Chrestler says
I am going to introduce cutting to my 3 year old next week. I just need to purchase the right scissors… is my comment. Not sure how the other name got in there.
Carly Kreiner says
I have 4 kids, so I don’t remember exactly, but I think around age 3.
Sarah Goldstein says
Over the years I’ve kept holiday cards we’ve received and my sons love cutting out faces and images from the cards to make collages. Great for fine motor skill development and repurposing these precious memories!
Tiffany Vroegop says
When did you give, or have you given, your child a chance to start cutting?
For my 4 year old, we started practicing with scissors after she turned 3 years old. However, her younger sister wants to do everything that big sis does, so we’ve already started practicing cutting with her at age 2 1/2. She’s doing well with it!
Cathrine K says
We started cutting with scissors at 2. He loves to make shapes and cut things out.
Katy Chaloux says
I was so nervous the first time I let my two year old use scissors for the first time. They were kids scissors and still it made me nervous. I let him cut up rolls of play dough and he had a ball. He’s now three and I admit, I stl do not use them as much as I should but I do know that he is very capable and just waiting for his mom to lighten up. These activities hopefully will help me get into cutting more with him! Thank you.
Noirin says
I started both my kids cutting at the first sign they were interested. For my eldest, it was at 2. For my second, who saw his sister cutting everyday, it was before his second birthday. I’m a preschool teacher so I knew all the tricks to help them learn how to use scissors as well as fun ways to practice. I stressed scissor safety for the first couple of weeks and never had much of an issue with it. My son did end up cutting a few things he shouldn’t have (his shirt and dolls hair) but he stopped when I took the scissor away for the week. My kiddos have had free access to scissors basically since they were 2 and have amazing cutting skills now at ages 4 and 7. It really is an important skill to have esp when entering Kindergarten.
Liz Bagwell says
My 4 1/2 year old started around 3 years old when he started a new daycare with a structured setting. They would always do fun projects. I’ve been able to be a stay at home mommy since March and we’ve worked more with scissors too. We love doing crafts together and I love seeing him learn new things!
Susan Andress says
My children started cutting at age 3 by cutting things in the backyard.
MKsnead says
My 4 yo loves to cut! Anything he can get his hands/scissors on so naturally the 2 yo also wants in on the action! I’ve been surprised what an engaging activity cutting practice is but I’m on board now. Great fine motor practice and they love it!
Ariel Vaux says
We haven’t started cutting yet but I can’t wait to try these fun activities when we do!
Carolyn Hinckley says
I have twins. My daughter has fine motor delays. We started cutting in OT when she was 3. It’should still a struggle, byt she’s improved a ton! My son probably started at 3.5. I was surprised how fast he caught on! They really do love it!
Aaron Bagley says
I started letting my 2 1/2 year old cut straws and now at 3 she can cut like a pro!
Helen Sarah Borochov says
I started my boys at around 2 years old, cutting with plastic scissors to use for clay, from Lakeshore learning. They love cutting things and we always try to work on thumbs up, but just to see them with their tongue have sticking out while they cut, is enough for me to know they are being challenged in a new activity and to step back a bit and let them explore this new skill.
Julie McGuire says
Love these tips for different things to cut! I gave my kids safe scissors when they were 2. Even if they aren’t ready yet, it gets them excited about it!
Rhonda Dubois says
My little guy is 2 (October baby), and wants to do everything his big (8 year old) sister does. He started using scissors within the last few months, first the plastic playdoh type; then tried cutting pieces of paper and tape with safety scissors last week. I think he wanted to help wrap Christmas gifts!
Nedra kanavel says
At 2 years!
Holly mccormick says
Scissor cutting around 3 years old.
Ellen says
Much like you I didn’t, it was preschool that did.
Tara says
Two of my children started using sissors at 2, one was just getting the feel, while the other started with good form! I have one more waiting to get his hands on some.
Mitzi says
I started my daughter at about 3yrs old and she’s 4 now. I didn’t think she would be old enough to cut but I found this site and realized I should get her started early and I’m glad I did! I started my son at just over 2 with some bunny kid safe scissors. He loved to just cut up pieces of paper. I didn’t realize how much kids just love to cut! Doesn’t have to be a reason for it just give them some scrap paper and off they go and we make a game out of cleaning up the pieces of paper on the floor. We try to find shapes in the paper and put it in different shape bags like square in one baggy and triangles in another and so on. Helps me with clean up and it’s fun for them. :-) I’ve really appreciated HOAWG site for all the advice and encouragement to start things early. I feel like my daughter is much more advanced for her age compared to some of the others in her pre-K class.
Abby H says
My son started cutting play dough when he was two. He is now five and learned to make snowflakes this year!
Tammie says
Yes my kids were cutting by age 3! They love to use scissors! I love the ideas you have on the different things to cut! Thank you for all your suggestions! Tammie
Ruth says
My son started when he was 2yo. We got all plastic playdo scissors so he could even put them in his mouth and wasn’t at all dangerous for him. So he would flaten the playdo and then cut it.
Deb says
I teach Early Childhood Family Education and every time we meet we have a few different cutting activities. We cut playdough, paper strips and then cutting on lines. We also give tips to parents on activities that they can do to help their child improve on their cutting skills.
Tia says
Love this article, my kids whom range from 12 months to 36 months have been doing some cutting with thtese great plastic scissors we have! They cut paper and other objects just like metal ones but not skin clothes or fingers!
Cari says
I started cutting with my son about 3; paper, straws,etc.
My daughter started when she was 2-2 1/2 watching her brother got her interested sooner. She enjoys writing and threading beads too.
Sarah says
My youngest (2) is wanting to do what her sisters do, so she grabs a pair of scissors. It is easier to teach her how to use them, so it is younger than I would normally do, but she has fun!
Heather says
I didn’t let my oldest cut until he was 4, my middle when he was 3 and my youngest when he was 2.
Sharee Givens says
These are great ideas for kids.
Allison Antoine says
I let our girls (ages 8 and 5) start cutting when they were about 2 with scissors just like these. Cutting paper was a favorite. I would cut paper into long strips and they would cut “tickets” with them. Sometimes my younger daughter will cut her own designs now. Fortunately we haven’t had the hair cutting experiment happen at our house yet! :)
Kelly says
I had my child cutting at 1.5 years old.
Tabitha says
My son started cutting paper with scissors when he was around 2 years old. He was in early head start so it could have been sooner.
Julie D says
My child watched as I use scissors often – special craft scissors, special scissors for herb cutting, special scissors for sewing so naturally, he wanted some ‘special’ scissors of his own to use. He was three when I started him off and he now owns his own “special” scissors!
Siggi says
I have my daughter a pair of scissors to use, when it seemed she was ready- probably around the age of 3.
Jen says
I was nervous about my second daughter using scissors after my first daughter cut her hair (more like hacked it all off!) My second daughter,Josie, ended up being left handed-unlike my husband and I. It has been very difficult to help her learn to use scissors, even now that she is 6, because her fine motor skills are not up to par and i have a hard time trying to teach her to cut with her left hand- it’s more difficult than I thought it would be finding scissors that accommodate her. The ideas in this post are wonderful! She will love trying to cut spaghetti and the grass! And I will definitely be using these ideas for my other two younger children! Thank you!
radhika says
Awesome Ideas! Can’t wait to try with my little one
Barbara says
As a pediatric OT working with preschoolers I give a child a chance to cut with scissors as soon as I start working with them. I too love the Fiskars scissors and will almost always use them. The only other scissors I use are a pair of very tiny scissors for my kids with really tiny hands. I usually start them with index cards or paint color strips because you need less ability to stabilize them, then construction paper and then finally white paper. Other media like straws and play doh are fun along the way. Once they are successful my kids love to cut. I love your website for new ideas when I get tired of mine :) Thanks for the nature idea!
Missy says
I bought my little one safety scissors at 2 1/2 yr old when she wanted to help out decorations with the big scissors. I showed her how to cut with those at the time but now cutting out Christmas decorations she can help safely.
Annette Wells says
We haven’t introduced cutting with scissors yet, but are planning to very soon. She is turning 3 in 2 weeks.
Megan says
Working with my children on cutting still and these are great ideas to try! I have let them start with hand-over-hand help around 18 months. I allow them to try by themselves and continue to help until they may need it.
Catherine says
I have twin two-year-old daughters and we actually just started cutting with scissors this month! They were watching me cut out some paper snowflakes when they started chanting “cut! Cut!” I let them try and cut some paper but they weren’t able to cut through it very well. I’m not sure if it was the scissors I was using or their grip. That’s when we pulled out the homemade dough and started carving shapes and “cutting” the dough.
Amanda G Nowlin says
I give my 2 yr old scissors, with playdough. It makes him feel very grown up. Great post
Karen says
I let my kids use scissors around 3.5 years of age.
Vianey Uribe de Sawyer says
My son started holding plastic scissor at the age of 2 and 10 months. He held them with both hands. Now at three and 7 months he can cut lines and is starting to do circles.
Thank you.
Mary collins says
Henry started cutting when he was 3. We started with paper. Because he had little control we make confetti. It can be used for many things but we used it as ground cover for a picture. As he practiced, he did longer strips so we make a chain for the decoration such as the holiday tree.
Alleen Lanham says
My daughter loves to cut with scissors. Things are sometimes a challenge for us due to her being left handed but we are getting there!
Tabitha says
My 3 year old loves to cut and gets really sad if he goes off the lines.
Sally Bosken says
I work with my almost 4 year old grand daughter on cutting I love the nature cutting idea. We help mom and dad in the garden by cutting weeds. Great fun! Thanks for your ideas
Amy McKenzie says
I haven’t yet, but after reading this article I’m excited to try!
Kristy Alberici says
I own a Home child Care and I usually start working with my kids at age 2 with many things and cutting is one of them. There have been a lot of children in my care who have never touched a pair of scissors or crayons, etc. I love hands on and I feel that is the best way to learn- through their own experiences.
Launna says
We usually let them start around 2. We usually end up with a haircut at least once. I love the ideas you shared!
Alaina says
Yes – varying ages. Probably as early as 18 months.
Joyce Mahl says
It depends on the kid. I think 3 is the earliest I’ve worked with kids and scissors. Some 3’s should only work with scissors when you are sitting right there with them.
Morgan Spencer says
I have not yet given my 2 year old a chance to cut things, but my husband has let our son try to cut his food- with supervision of course. Great blog!
Walla R. says
My grandchildren love cutting!! We have curved, zigzag, and wavy scissors as well as the regular child scissors. We do a lot of the crafts from HANDSONASWEGROW.COM!!
Allyson F says
We try to let our kids cut with supervision, but it’s tough -they don’t want to cut paper, only their hair! lol
Andrea Colbeth says
I start to let my children use scissors with supervision around the age of 4 :-)
Sharon Stringer says
My first born was cutting at about 20 months as we were in the process of getting to know the 6-year-old boy whom we adopted and some of our activities involved cutting. My youngest son was 2-21/2 before he wanted to pick up scissors. My grandchildren were introduced to scissors at about 18 mos. They are now 11, 5, and 2 1/2. The youngest still cuts with a pair of the rounded Fiskar scissors left over from the dozen I bought in 1986 because the scissors in the Sunday School didn’t cut well. I use a pair of them in my sewing bag because they don’t poke holes through it like my sewing Fiskars are apt to do with their pointed design. I won’t buy any scissors but Fiskars for my grandchildren or myself. My 5-year-old granddaughter graduated to pointed Fiskar primary scissors and uses them on paper and on fabric when making clothes for her doll. I like the youth scissors for older children because of the longer blade, which they can handle, yet it is not too long and awkward like adult scissors. The handles are also fitted to their hand.
Frances says
Havent started yet but these are all fabulous ideas! I really love the grass cutting one! So trying it this spring/summer!
Michelle J says
We started our kids with safety scissors & paper between 2 and 3.
Erin says
We haven’t tried scissors yet but we are excited to!
Joanna says
My second child started cutting very early since she saw her older brother cutting a lot. I think she was not quite 2 yet when she started cutting.
Trisha says
I’ve just started letting my toddler use blunt-tip scissors. I have never seen the beginning scissors before. Off to check them out!
Cheryl says
My oldest is 26 months and the only scissors she’s had practice with are the play doh ones! She’s gotten better with those so I was thinking of giving her the real deal soon. Not going to lie, it scares me to death but she has to learn sometime. I think the play doh scissors were a great beginner experience but it’s time for a step up.
Nicole says
I start mine cutting some around age 2. They love it, but I’m always afraid they’ll cut their hair!
Cheryl C. says
My oldest is 26 months and the only scissors she’s had practice with are the play doh ones! She’s gotten better with those so I was thinking of giving her the real deal soon. Not going to lie, it scares me to death but she has to learn sometime. I think the play doh scissors were a great beginner experience but it’s time for a step up.
kathy foor says
I teach kindergarten and have scissors with fingerholes for the adults as well as for the child. With these scissors, I started cutting with all the children in my family at age 2. They were thrilled to be using scissors like the “big kids”. And, I know, all their kindergarten teachers were appreciative of the cutting skills they had acquired before they started school.
Kim Dexter says
Our children start at about 3 years of age. They start by tearing paper into small pieces. They then begin snipping everything from playdough and grass to making fringe on a piece of paper taped to the table.
Peggy Keller says
We practice cutting several times a week in my K-2 Special Needs classroom!
Heather Lawson says
I teach Autistic children whose fine motor skills are behind where they should be for their age. I give my students a chance to practice cutting at least once a week if not more.
Paige says
My kids love using scissors to cut spaghetti, pipe cleaners and play dough!
Kacey says
We have little scissors and plastic scissors for 2-3 year old kiddos. They love cutting just to make cuts in a piece of paper if nothing else. I love some of these ideas though! We have more fun things to do with scissors! I’d love to try a pair of the spring open ones you talked about…that’ll be on the list for my next adventure to the school aisle!
Ashley says
My 2yo loves to cut!
Katie May says
We have two little boys that love to cut things! Our oldest started cutting when he was three with help of course. Our youngest started using scissors at 2 1/2.
Sarah Rivers says
Both my kids had exposure to scissors by 2.5 years old. We started with snipping and progressed from there!
Annette Lynn says
My oldest son is left handed and we started him on scissor cutting when he was 3 years old. Our youngest son began at 4 yearsold.
Sarah says
I can’t remember exactly when I started my boys cutting, but I think it was around three years old. My youngest is four and my oldest is eight and both of them love cutting things out and using scissors.
Cori says
My boys have loved cutting since they were about 2 and 18 months. Favorites are making fringe paper arms chopping play doh snakes.
Gen S. says
I love the versatility of activities to use scissors for! I’ve also seen a big difference in using Fiskar scissors versus the other brands. They work so much better and are easier for the children to handle.
Thank you for the great ideas.
Suvarna L says
Just after he turned 3! He was so interested in the cutting process that teing paper was just not ‘cutting’ it out!!
Lindsey L says
My son has been fascinated with cutting ever since I first let him have scissors. I can’t remember when exactly, but it was a little before he was three. I gave him punches first, and he loved those, too. He loves to cut non-paper things. Straws were a favorite for a long time, and I am totally going to turn him into our little weed eater. He’d love it. Such a good idea!
Michelle Markley says
I let my son use scissors when he was 2yrs old. We cut straws and made necklaces or watched them fly across the room. He also gets a kick out of cutting Playdouh. His now 3.5 and still cutting away. I give hi a chance every time he is in his artsy mood. Recently we cut little strips for the Activity Room activity ….”Christmas paper chain” and he did amazing!!
Gina says
We started after watching her try at church – I forget what age, maybe a year? Today, at 3.5 I let her open a new roll of wrapping paper and cut squares for two presents, then cut all the way across to free a large piece – which she immediately took and started jumping up and down on!
Sandi Hunter says
I let my kids start cutting with safety scissors at age 2. We usually started with play-doh because it is easy for the kids to handle while trying to position the scissors.
Margaret says
I first let my daughter start cutting when she was just over two. We started with me cutting thin strips of paper, and then holding them tight so she could cut them with her little scissors
Janelle Knapp says
I have been a child care provider for over 18 years. Only recently did I see an article about cutting Play-doh with scissors and I’ve had my 2 year olds cutting with scissors already! My older children love cutting it as well……good practice and it’s fun!!
Jenae says
I let my kids start cutting with supervision around 3 yrs old.
Kristina says
Hey! My daughter is not quite 2so I have not given her a chance with scissors yet. I think I’m going to wait awhile longer, and at first it will be guided by me while she’s holding them until she understand what the are for.
Mici Bos says
The first time I gave our baby (our 7th child) scissors was at 22 months. He LOVES them. Any package that needs open he asks for his frog scissors. Sister’s are pink and his are green frogs. We have a combined family. My children ages 33, 30 and 28. My husband’s children ages 25 and 21 and then the 2 little ones that we adopted are 5 and 2.
Annalisse Daly says
I let my first start cutting at 19 months, inspired primarily by the ideas I found here. It went beautifully (although I was always closely supervising the first several months). My second is now 13 months and we’re letting her handle the scissors– again under close supervision. It will obviously be a few months yet before she actually figures out the cutting motion, of course. Love the reminders on other things to cut besides paper!
Krissy says
When did you give, or have you given, your child a chance to start cutting?
– Our oldest daughter (now 2.5) first began using those all-plastic kiddo scissors when she was 17-months. There is this great ECFE program in our previous home that puts out scissors with play-dough to cut. More recently I let her help me cut 1/2″ strips off the tops of my #2 coffe filters for her to get a feel for what cutting paper feels like and so I can have my single-cup of coffee; both parties satisfied!
diana dearman says
As soon as they showed interest , I showed my children how to use scissors. Knowing how to use them and supervised project s seemed safer than random clandestine experiments.
MONICA BENGER says
I started giving my daughter scissors around 3.5yo.
Tessa Haynes says
I haven’t started with my daughter yet, but I just learned that she has used scissors already in her preschool, so I just bought a pair for her and we’re going to start tomorrow! Thanks for all these great ideas for other items to cut too (not just paper!)
Kathryn James says
With my oldest, we started letting him use age-appropriate scissors around 3 1/2 years old. My youngest just turned three and we have not let him use scissors yet.
Courtney says
I start letting my kids cut with scissors when they turn 3. Both my 5 and 3 yo love using scissors. Neither of them are super crafty (might be a boy thing?!), and often hesitate to do art type projects, but I can usually get them to use scissors!
Samantha says
Last week I made a Christmas activity jar – I cut strips of paper, wrote activities on them, and put them in a jar. My two year old was watching. I gave her a pair of scissors and her own paper. She loved it! She’s been cutting almost every day since. She recently found a piece of foam paper and is working on cutting that now. Also my four year old has been cutting wrapping paper and wrapping up her toys and putting them under the Christmas tree ?
Jennifer says
LOVE these ideas!! My 3 1/2 year old has just discovered scissors and she would like to use them all the time. Previously we have only cut paper, but now I am going to try some of these great ideas. Thank you for sharing!
Brittany says
Just a couple week ago I gave my almost 3 year old twins a couple pair of scissors, some glue sticks, and a stack of paper, and stepped away and let them explore. They absolutely loved it! I enjoyed watching the facial expressions as they were so intently working on their art masterpieces ;)
Jenn says
I love the ideas! My charges are 2 1/2 & 4 and I allowed them to start using safety scissors at 2. We practice how to hold, use, and cut with scissors using play dough, various types of paper (including printed patterns, pictures, etc.), pipe cleaners, straws, etc. We haven’t used scissors to cut food, but it is a good idea and is common in countries outside of the U.S. (i.e. Vietnam). I will try cutting spaghetti next week. Thank you!!!
Michelle says
We started using scissors about the age of 3. We started with play dough and then moved on to paper.
Maria says
My son was interested around or before his 2nd birthday in using scissors. He was advanced in fine motor skills and so I let him use scissors on special supervised occasions. He would cut and cut and cut. He loved it because it was hard for him and different and because he could see how he was affecting the paper. I love your idea of nature cutting. My son now loves to use my yard clippers which I rarely let him use at 3 but the scissors would be a great idea. Thanks for sharing.
Victoria R. says
I would give my child “scissors” as soon as they could hold them. I would start with play dough scissors so that they can learn to safely hold and use scissors. Then I would move on to safety scissors and watch them very closely. I feel that by doing this my child could gain a lot of confidence with scissors early. Then when they need to use scissors in school, they already have some practice.
Sakeena says
I bought my son his first pair of child friendly scissors at age 3. He’s 4 now and loves cutting any chance he gee. We just practiced cutting paper snowflakes this week and he loved it!
Shan says
I introduces cutting to my daughter around 2 years old, and now as a five year old she will use every opportunity to use the scissors. My son however has been a little behind and hasn’t been able to understand scissors until about month ago, and he’s four.
Thanks for all of these great cutting activities!
Shannon says
We got toddler scissors for my son when he was about 2.5 years old, and he loved just cutting up scraps of paper. We’ve done a little cutting out designs (he’s 3.5 now), but mostly he just loves to cut up paper into little pieces, and can entertain himself for about 20 minutes or so doing that. We haven’t tried cutting other materials, so we will have to try that too.
Katy says
I introduced myself daughter to cutting when she was two years old. She’s loved it ever since!
Labrini V says
My eldest two used siccors at the age of three but my youngest is using siccors since the age of two!
Tricia S. says
MY 3 Kids all startedcutting at 2 1/2. I felt it was old enough to be somewhat responsible with e scissors and a good starting point.
Linda says
I babysit my 2 grand boys, age 2 and 4. They usually cut paper, but enjoy cutting ribbon. They cut up old Christmas wrapping paper which we use to collage a tissue box. Then they glue on their ribbon cuttings. They are waiting for letters from Santa!
Sarah says
What a great article! My son is 2 and already likes to hold the scissors and he uses his blunt scissors in his playdough though doesn’t really cut with them yet!
Maggie arthur says
I let my little boy start cutting Little bits here and there at age 3 as he was very interested in using scissors.
Ashley says
I started letting my son at age 2 try to use scissors. We started with playdough! It was a lot of fun!!
Amanda D says
My son just turned 2 today, so we haven’t tried cutting yet.
RaMiena Carlisle says
I love this post about cutting and scissors. It’s very in depth, and is a great tool for those of us who have the privilege of introducing children to cutting. We actually have 3 types of scissors made by Fiskars. I am not a certified teacher, but I teach pre k at a daycare. We don’t have a core curriculum, so I always use this site as a resource. Thank you Hands on as we grow, Jamie, for making activities so simple and easy to complete!
Nicole says
Around maybe 2 1/2 I think, I was reluctant but it’s been super safe, except for the time he wanted to trim a tree outside, did so much cutting on branches he got blisters on his hand. Other than that – loves cutting everything!!
Amber says
I was terrified of scissors! I have twins, and I just knew something terrible would happen if I gave them scissors. I first introduced scissors at our local library’s storytime. I figured there were plenty of other adults present, and my kids would have no idea that we have scissors at home, too. We were able to build some skill and work on safety rules in a neutral environment.
Fatna says
I gave to my daughter her first scisors at 24 months, and since then she loves to use scisors to cut!
Sara says
We let our toddler start cutting at 3 years with those plastic safe paper only scissor. Then by 3.5 years he would try the regular sharp scissor supervised.
AJ says
I like the spaghetti idea! My son is 3 and loves to cut paper and yarn.
Melissia says
We’ve started with cutting Playdoh! Making “snakes” and cutting them up can occupy my girl for hours, lol!
Kristi says
Wow! These are great never ideas never thought of. My LO is 27 months so cutting things are not on my radar yet, though my LO knows what they are for. Now knows where to begin!
nicole says
I let my daughter start cutting when she was a little over 3 because she started asking to every time I was cutting something. Finally we were at office Depot and she saw a little pink pair she had to have. She loves to stand over the trash can and cut up a piece of papper.
Estie says
I waited pretty long to let my older son start cutting, probably around 4, and he found it frustrating and difficult when he wasn’t up to par in pre-school . He’s 7 and still doesn’t like cutting activities. My second is 2 years old now and I started her on play-doh and I think it’s great that she is getting used to it with no pressure. Still scared to give her real scissors though.
Brooke says
I let my children start cutting as toddlers. We did all types of activities like the ones you posted. Cutting playdough was one of their favorites. And it actually still is as elementary students.
Nicole says
Hi! I would love a chance to win the Fiskars box! My son is 2.5 and I started working with him on cutting right about the time he turned 2. We started with play dough and strings of beads. But I have been frustrated with the kids scissors that I have purchased, so would like to try the Fiskars!
Tamra Porta says
We start cutting at age 3yrs love the grass idea will have to try that in warmer weather. We have done the TP roll put a face on it lower on the roll and then give it a hair cut, we also do cutting sheets another one of my favorites is letting them cut up the junk mail. Thanks for drawing opportunity :)
Haley Stevens says
My oldest son started cutting at age three and my younger twins, after seeing big brother, started cutting (with supervision) around 18 months. We mostly cut paper but love the ideas here to practice on playdoh and even food!
Sara Wood says
I first let my daughter use scissors (at home) right when she started preschool, age 3. She’s in daycare as well, so she gets a lot of exposure. I keep the scissors up where she can’t reach. She has to ask for them or when we do craft time, I’ll get them out. (With a one year old brother around, were extra careful, and I closely monitor).
Rachel Nesbit says
I started letting my kids cut things at the age of 3. My son loves to cut things!
Angel says
I began practicing scissor skills with my daughter when she was two. We started with small plastic scissors and play dough. She’s 4 now and she loves to do anything that involves getting to use her own scissors.
Mary F says
I began allowing my kids to cut around age 3, although my youngest attempts to use scissors at age 2. The play dough cutting was one of the first things we did, as well as cutting tissue paper and wrapping paper because they’re so easy to cut through.
Dawnelle Glass says
Dawnelle123@gmail dot Comm
Cassie Stratton says
My kids all started cutting around age 2. We used adaptive scissors to help build their muscles.
jJulie Bezselich says
I started with my granddaughter at three, I know I bought at least four pair of scissors none of which worked for her. I wish I found your site earlier. Great ideas!
Alice says
I actually found this post when ds was about 18 months old, and started him off with a pair of safety scissors cutting straws. He took to it quickly & loved snipping paper and leaves. Now at 3, he can cut in straight lines and is starting to learn to cut shapes. Thanks for all of your great posts, I use your activities all the time!
jJulie Bezselich says
I worked with my granddaughter when she was 3. I have bought at least 4 pair of scissors none of which seem to work. I wish I had saw your post sooner! Great ideas!
Donna Spezzano says
I started with my oldest at 4, but my youngest was 3 when I allowed them to use scissors for the first time.
Melissa says
My daughter started using scissor to cut homemade playdough at 2. My son, 1 1/2, is fascinated with scissors. We tried cutting dough with lots of hands on help but his fine motor skills needs a little more time developing.
Jacqueline says
I started my littlest one recently using scissors, she did much better than I expected. Just barely three and she can nearly follow simple straight lines. She prefers cutting to tearing. Now working with shapes like squares and triangles and practice cutting them.
Samantha Dickey says
I started teaching my child cutting when she became around 2 and a half, she is always near me when I am crafting and started to show interest, so I bought a pair of plastic scissors first to help her learn and then this year gave her the metal ones to try out. At 3 she is a crafty little girl who enjoys creating things^^
S. Snyder says
My two-year-old is cutting pretty well on her own already. She loves to cut through old catalog pages and construction paper. I have a pair of Melissa and Doug safety scissors that she mostly uses, but occasionally she also uses blunt-edged Fiskars when I can watch her more closely. I don’t remember when she started using them exactly. She showed an early interest because of her two older siblings (4 and 7 years old).
Kaite says
We started my daughter with scissors just before her third birthday with lots of supervision. Now (still 3) she is consistently safe with hem and has constant access to them at her art table.
Johanna Bell says
My 2.5yo started with a Halloween craft using paper to make 3d pumpkins, but I need to get her using them again. It’s just been the once!
Jessica Hames says
We started introducing around 2.5 yrs old.
Jan says
We were making Reindeer picture frames today with the children trying to cut out their handprints for antlers. Most of the reindeer still had some finger/antlers left when the children were done.
Emily Cummins says
Ages 4 and 3
Emily Cummins says
My daughter started around 3 1/2 – 4 yrs old and my son at 3. I love the idea of cutting grass, noodles, and tortillas!
Emily Cummins says
My daughter started practicing at 4 and my son at age 3. I love the idea of cutting grass, spaghetti, and tortillas. We will definitely be trying those soon!
Ann Gibney says
I let my kids start cutting play dough when they were three.
Sheri Clyde says
We’ve been making snowflakes this week! Lots of cutting fun! And no two are alike!!
lori Tyler says
I let my grandson start cutting ay around 2 and a half.old magazines and paper. The older ones are making snowflakes. They would use all my paper if i let them.
Lori says
I first gave my daughter scissors around age 3
Linda says
I start cutting from magazines with my grandchildren when they turn 3! Other ideas look great!
Erilyn says
When my kids turn the age of 2 is when I start let them use scissors, I’m in the process of buying Wescott easy grip self opening craft scissors, because I believe they are the best for starting out.
Audrey L. says
My twins will turn three right after Christmas and still didn’t experience cutting with scissors. I am planning on organizing some cutting activities in the next few days and see how they like it. They love art and craft so much it is easy to please them.
Thank you for your always – oh! so inspiring – website and emails!
Megan says
My daughter just turned 2 years old, and I just started considering letting her use scissors. I think in a couple months we’ll give it a shot! I think she’d really like the ideas in your post, especially cutting grass.
Delma says
As a school based OT I introduce the preschoolers to cutting and tearing at 3-4 years. It’s fun to see their efforts and excitement when cutting all kinds of materials.
Kianca says
My little one loves it when we do cutting activities. I introduced scissors at 2.5 and she is doing pretty well now at age 3 we are still working on control but play doh is by far her favorite thing to cut.
Annette Swantek says
I am a preschool teacher in a public school. I give my four year olds scissors made for playdough from the first day of school. Then we start with “real” scissors the second week of school.
Tina says
My daughter just turned 2 and I have her a scissors and she did pretty well for her age I though but she had great fine motor skills. I would love the chance to do more activities with her with these supplies.
Dee says
I let my older son first try cutting when he was late 2. I bought child safe scissors and sat next to him and just let him go to town on some paper. He loves trying to cut paper any chance he gets.
Debi says
I did precutting activities with my son when he between 1 and 2 years old because he loved tools. Neil loved to try to pick up all sorts of objects with the metal tongs, plastic salad tongs that looked like a spoon and a fork, etc. Evidently he liked to play with various sizes of tweezers. He also used paper punches with paper and various garden tools to dig with in the dirt. The first things that he cut with scissors were cooked spaghetti and playdough. When he did use scirssors and papers I gave him thin strips of cardstock to snip.
Courtney says
My daughter (now 4) started cutting in school around 2 years old. She now cuts intricate dolls, snowflakes and freeform designs and her teacher is amazed at skills. My son (now 2) has almost always had access to children’s scissors and has recently begun to LOVE cutting paper into tiny pieces. We’ve never had any improper cutting incidents or dangerous use because they have always known the rules and have access to them!
Beth Ryan says
I haven’t tried cutting yet, with my almost 3 year old twin girls. Sounds like we should start soon. I’m just nervous about trying to supervise two at once. But maybe they can take turns? We’ll be trying the playdough cutting and the straw cutting to make a necklace.
Megan says
I gave my oldest scissors at 3 because he was really interested when I used them. He has cut all types of oaoer, playdough, and cardboard (toilet paper rolls). My 2 yr old now uses scissors as well to cut paper. She is supervised closely but my now 4 yr old has more freedom as long as he follows the safety rules.
Wendy Lemon says
I start kiddos cutting with play dough scissors and play dough ropes. I also like the play dough barber set- it is fun to cut the play dough hair. Good times!
Katherine says
I introduced scissors to both my son’s at the same time (ages 4.5 and just barely turned 3) by having them cut yarn. My 3yo loved it and cut yarn every day for weeks. Now they’re both cutting snowflakes like crazy. Their goal is to make a snowflake garland for each of their aunts, grandmas, great grandma, and teachers!
Melissa Papson says
I have always bought my kids their own pair of scissors when they turned 3. They love that they get their very own pair that they can use.
Diana Searby says
The first time I let my 3 year old granddaughter play with scissors, she loved it so much, she cut everything in sight (comics, color ads and the list goes on!!!) Good thing he house cannot be cut with scissors or she might have ended up homeless! :) But I cannot wait to show her how to cut playdough…what a fun idea!!! (I am just a big kid myself, what can I say? :)
Annette Oviedo says
I work with special needs students at the high school level. Yes, your newsletter is perfect for alot of the fine motor activities that we do. We practice cutting skills alot. Even with those those that have the knowledge of cutting, but can’t do it, we do hand over hand, just so they can experience it!
Mary Beth Barts says
I found some great kids scissors at a yard sale that are spring loaded to help with the opening and closing feature. My son began using them at age 2 with paper. I would draw different line patterns and have him try to follow them. I love the idea of nature cutting, on our way to the park now and I plan to pack some scissors!
Trudi Villegas says
I didn’t start letting my Four year old start cutting until he was almost four. I really should have done it sooner. He now struggles with scissors when we have an activity to do which requires cutting. I am beginning to expose my two year old to them now.
Yvonne Carmany says
I let my daughter start cutting at 2, as soon as her little fingers could manipulate the scissor blades.
Andrea Ross says
I let my son start experimenting with toddler scissors shortly after he turned two. First with Christmas catalogs and then again with the wrapping paper. We have done more as he has aged and now at almost 3 he’s starting to learn to cut with purpose instead of just the motions.
Sarah says
My child was three when he started with scissors. He asks to practice almost every day!
katie says
What great ideas! Thank you for sharing! I always let my kids start cutting when they show interest.
Rachel says
My son is almost 3 so we have not quite started yet, but I plan to start introducing him to cutting with scissors soon ?
Heather Earley says
Sarah started just experimenting around 2. Now at 3 she is really doing well with straights and zig zags. Working on rounded lines now.
Tiffany B says
I waited until 4 with my oldest but with my second child I started a little sooner. I remember giving him opportunities with scissors around 3 1/2. He was so proud!
Leigh says
The first time I gave my daughter a chance to start cutting was when she was 3 years old. But you are so right when you say it is a scary thing!! I was so afraid that she was going to cut herself that I gave up. :( But honestly, after reading your suggestions I feel like I just didn’t really have a clear understanding of how to proceed properly, or where to start, and that is what caused my anxiety for her safety to be escalated. Now that she is 4 years old I want to revisit this with her. I’ve made sure to save this page and I’m more confident now we will succeed. Thanks for another great post!
Chelsea Rodriguez says
My daughter is only 2.5, so I’m not sure she would be up for it yet. She is starting preschool next month, and scissors are on her supply list. This post has me thinking I might introduce her to the idea
Jeanne DeMarzo says
My grandsons started cutting at three. I have always used Fiskars. As an educator, I also taught them how to use scissors properly by cutting different materials such as; playdough, yarn, and paper.
Theresa says
I love the spaghetti cutting practice idea! Our kids started using scissors at age 2. They were in OT and cutting was encouraged.
Jill says
I usually give my kids scissors around three. They seem to be able to control them better at that point.
Laura says
My kiddo is only 18 months, so we haven’t started cutting yet. I have a feeling he will be thrilled when I let him though, as he loves to tear things! :-)
Deanne says
My daughter is around 2 years old. I did sit with her showing her how to cut paper with scissors and let her hold them. She had very little interest but now it makes sense given what the article said.
Amanda says
Hi Jamie,
I teach preschool and have two sons of my own. One of our favorite activities is going outside in the warmer months and cutting grass with children’s scissors. Kids love to cut and then they make nests, piles, walls, etc. out of grass. We also cut our own holiday cards and decorations, and love cutting play dough!
Thanks.
Amanda
Andrea says
You’re suggesting are perfect! As soon as my little ones show interest, which is sometimes as early as 2.5, I let them use the play dough scissors (no sharp edges at all) and then move on to using kid scissors on magazine pages, paper, just about anything they can cut! I have 8 children ranging from 3 months to 16 years. I think being aware and giving them opportunity to cut along with being an example (big siblings are awesome at this ), you can’t go wrong!!
Jennifer says
You’re suggesting are perfect! As soon as my little ones show interest, which is sometimes as early as 2.5, I let them use the play dough scissors (no sharp edges at all) and then move on to using kid scissors on magazine pages, paper, just about anything they can cut! I have 8 children ranging from 3 months to 16 years. I think being aware and giving them opportunity to cut along with being an example (big siblings are awesome at this ), you can’t go wrong!!
Jennifer says
With my older kids, they started using scissors when they were 3. But my now 4 year old has been trying for a year and is still frustrated with cutting.
Karen says
That’s what old magazines are for! I love the grass idea. Thanks!
Bridget kimball says
I just love all the different things you cut! Yes, we have started cutting (just boring paper) :) it is such an important skill! We will start cutting other fun things!
Priscilla says
Mine started around 2 and a half. She was very much into coloring and art type activities so it kind of just stemmed from that!! Keeping those little hands busy!! And now that they have such amazing kids scissors it made me feel Ok to allow it that young!
Gio says
I started very early with my triplets: we’ve started cutting paper and dough with no cutting scissors.
I was very natural and they always had fun and act correctly.
Beverley says
I let my own children help me cut coupons to practice their cutting skills . My oldest started cutting around age three. I have taught Pre-K for 24 years and I request Fiskar scissors to be brought in their supplies. They are the best!
Nikki says
I started letting my little ones cut around the age of 3 when working with play dough.
Jennifer says
I like to start them at around 30 months, if they are ready. I usually start with Play-doh cutting with a plastic scissors until they get the hang of it.
Ashley Doty says
I bought my son who is 3 years old scissors after he started preschool and they started practicing with cutting. He asked me if I’d buy him some. When I saw it was a struggle, we got straws and cut those first. Now he can cut on a line across the paper!
Jennifer says
I allow them to start trying when they show interest in cutting.
Shifi Pollock says
I gave my 2 year old daughter store ads to cut up. At first she got frustrated and tried ripping the paper while holding the scissors, but eventually (with some help) she figured it out. She loves cutting and making projects. I am constantly reminding her that we only cut paper or things that Mommy gives her to cut. NOT her hair:)
Cassie Travo says
I try to start cutting activities with my grandchildren around age 3. They are curious about what I am doing with the scissors. We start snipping comics-they always think it’s so funny!
Dorothy Weinstein says
My kids start cutting with safety scissors (the plastic ones) at age 2. When I feel confident that they can handle scissors responsibly with little supervision, I move them to “real” scissors (child sized scissors with blunted tips).
Melanie Blakeslee says
I taught Pre-K before I had my daughter, & I think cutting should start early to develop those hand muscles & fine motor skills! I would have started my daughter cutting at 2.5, but my husband made me wait until she was 3. I gave her her first pair of scissors for her third birthday & we have never looked back. We practiced scissor safety from the first day, & now it is totally natural to her to be safe with them. They are stored where she always has access to them. The basic rule we have about cutting is you have to get permission to cut. So far, there has never been a problem! The one issue we have had is she is left-handed & so some scissors are not made for her.
Joyce Tupola says
I allowed my kids to start cutting around age 5. In kindergarten, it’s on the school supply list, so that’s when I actually allowed my kids to use scissors. Now, that’s not to say some of them didn’t “find” them a bit earlier. We have pictures of my daughter with the funky bangs that are way to short or my son who loves straws and cutting them whenever he gets a chance. I can definitely see how they could handle them at a younger age.
Stephanie Keltner says
I started having my son cut around 2 years old and he gets more practice now that he is in a preschool program!
Jessie Kernan says
When Leah was about 20 months we gave her a pair of safety scissors but we really let he go on her own (meaning without me holding the scissors too!) right close to 2 years old when she was able to understand that scissors are for paper or grass or whatever mommy says we can cut and not clothes, hair, furniture, ect…
Adrienne says
I 100% agree with cutting outside – plants, leaves, grass. My son can do that for 15-20 minutes at a time.
KImberly Carlson says
We let our little guy have the opportunity to cut as soon as he could hold scissors even if it was with two hands! He’s 3 and has been cutting for almost 2 years. He’s just now getting a good handle on it but, its by far one of his favorite activities!!
Andrea Mangold says
20 months! Are started with paper and then blblades of grassand long weeds!
Janet Keller says
2 1/2 years old started cutting
Antenniell Neumiller says
I let my little one start cutting around 18 months. She would cut paper strips into smaller pieces. I then let her glue the pieces onto a sheet of paper to create a mosaic type art piece. I also let her cut play-doh.
Mandy says
My 3.5 y/o started learning at 2.5 and absolutely loves to cut! I am amazed by his concentration, focus, and attention while doing cutting activities. It is definitely a go-to when I’m trying to get dinner on the table!
Brittany Culberson says
I just tried to gEt my daughter to cut like a week ago. She’s a bit young but she loved trying.
Deborah Bown says
Started giving kids scissors at age 5 or 6 to get into arts and crafts
Alexa Freeman says
We cut paper- kumon cutting books! Love them!!
Lori says
We first gave my grandsons scissors at about 26 months, he is now almost 3, he is not really too big into them but we still offer them a few times a week.
coralyn maxwell says
I love the activties that you post they are so help when it comes to teaching my kids the skills that they need to know. Thank you
Debra Geary says
I gave my daughter scissors when she was three. I bought an Alex book for cutting she loved it.
Tara Duffy says
We started our daughter at 3 to learn how to cut.
Marena Keys says
I remember sharing scissors with my children when they were 2 years old. First cutting playdough and then “paper snips” as we called it. My kids filled envelopes full of paper snips. They were so proud of them, (thank goodness for junk mail envelopes).
Brittany Russell says
We started to practice cutting when my little boy was about 2 1/2. He is almost 5 now and does a really good job with cutting!
Joan says
Thanks for promoting cutting as this is a pre writing activity.
I like the scissors with the 2 wholes the same size…that allows for the correct finger placement.
The thumb and middle finger, the pointer finger is the steering finger, the 3 fingers used for pencil grip.
If taught early correctly the precision fingers get stronger and ready for writing.
I found the Mape scissors as great scissors, coming in lefty ones too.
Christine Lee says
I started letting my daughter explore with scissors when she was 3 by cutting out pictures in advertisements.
Jojo says
I first introduced my LG to cutting (use of scissors) at the age of 2.5. She wasn’t much so interested; though, I did leave them out with paper, incase she would ever be interested. Now at the age of 3.5 she loves it!!! She’s a lefty, so it still takes a while to figure out the correct & comfortable grip.
Kirina says
We started our little off at age 3. He has great fine motor skills but if he didn’t I actually would’ve started him earlier to strengthen his fingers. He still needs help to cut straight lines but otherwise loves doing it himself. I like the idea of cutting grass and straws.
Deborah Bown says
My little one started to learn how to use scissors at 18 months old.
Shelly says
What fun ideas! I don’t think I started my children cutting until they were around 3. They love to do “crafts” with Mom.
venita says
I introduced scissors with my son when he was 2 1/2 years old….
Jessica says
My last child started cutting playdough at 3 years old. I can’t remember the others. Thank you for all the great tips. We will try spaghetti tonight!
Sandy says
2 and 1/2 years old – started with safety scissors
Debbie N says
I started with my kids and grandkids at around 2 years old. Let them have old magazines to cut up. It didn’t seem like it took long for them to figure out how to hold the scissors and worked toward cutting on a line.
Celeste says
I think scissors are great but kids are so different as to when they understand how to use them safely. I have two boys who were not really ready to safely use them until 4. But my daughter handles them very well at 3.
tara says
My daughter, now 7.5, got started with cutting around 2 and a half or so, with thefiskars that spring open! My son, 4.5, at about 3.
Dawn says
I love to start kids out with cutting skills on cutting play-dough snakes!..
Dawn says
I love to start kids out with cutting skills on cutting play-dough snakes!..
Karen says
I start with cutting play dough as the child shows interest. I love your cutting food idea! Thank you for the tips!
Danielle says
Great ideas! I have two little ones learning to use scissors. I’ll be trying these ideas!
Leah says
Thank you for the useful information and resources. Children have an opportunity to start cutting as infants, if activities that involve fine motor development and skills are included (e.g., eye-hand coordination, strengthening hand muscles and core, etc). More specifically, when children show an interest, which is encouraged by having available materials and cutting tools as well as using them myself with children so they can see them in action. Children also see other children experimenting with and using scissors and other cutting tools.
Marci says
3 years old!
Alexa Licea says
I am a 1:1 para educator with a student who has down syndrome.She is eight years old but funtions at a 3 year old level. We had her start cutting last year. Boy was it a challenge! She had a hard time due to her fine motor skills, and gross motor skills. Also due to her being left handed we don’t always have the right scissors for a long time because she is rather strong and tends to break the scissors. However when she does cut she truly enjoys just snipping and snapping at the paper. It is a fun activity for her!
Erin Dodd says
I have three children. Now ages 6, 4, and 3. They are very energetic and hands on. Cutting is one thing I was absolutely afraid to try with my son (the 6 year old) because of his wildness. However, around the age of 4 (I think it was), we decided to cut and paste paper just for fun. I had never seen my son so calm. He cut and cut for 45 minutes just as peaceful as can be! So, needless to say, we love crafts that include cutting at my house!
stephanie morency says
My youngest showed a lot of interest in scissors before her 2nd birthday. We started with play doh scissors, and she’s already mastered kids scissors at 3.
Sara Tiner says
With my first-born, he didn’t start cutting paper until just before preschool at age 4. We may have helped him cut things for craft projects before that or let him do it with supervision but not often. With my second, he was cutting with blunt, child scissors by about 2.5 –big brother does it so it was very interesting! Now at age 3 he is getting the hang of where to put his fingers but it’s still a little confusing. We do probably 3 or 4 art projects a week and maybe one out of 6 or 8 involves scissors, just for context.
Jessica says
I want to say I’m the adventurous Mom who let her kids start practicing with scissors at 2 1/2 and now they are these amazing little cutters at 3 and 4 years old… But, I’m not, and I’m a bad liar? After reading your post I am adding these super fun cutting activities into our daily preK at home experience!!! We use scissors occasionally, but the first time I let my oldest use scissors was about 6 months ago when he turned 4. And it still makes me nervous! Maybe we are using the wrong scissors, and I know now we are definitely not doing the right activities to practice cutting skills so I am excited to start helping both of my older two to build those scissor using skills pronto!! As for my youngest he is going to start using scissors at a much younger age☺️ Thank you!!
Mary Kidd says
It was a long time ago now, but we started snipping paper, then making paper chains for Christmas! Then we grew “grass hair” on top of heads made out of old stockings stuffed with something…I forget…that we placed grass seed on and watered regularly (our version of a chia head). It was fun giving those heads “haircuts” when the grass seed grew!!!!
Holly Collins says
When did you give, or have you given, your child a chance to start cutting?
My daughter (just turned 5) started using scissors when she was two. We started with Play doh and straws. She has access to her scissors whenever she wants to cut. Thankfully, after showing her what they are used for, we’ve never had an issue with her cutting her hair! :)
Dana Polk says
I gave my children a chance to start cutting around the age of 3. The problem was once they started they didn’t want to stop so my son decided my daughter needed a haircut. There was a whole other lesson after that.
Missi Khosla says
Thank you for all the great ideas! My favorite is cutting in nature, as I my son and I both enjoy being outdoors, this will be fantastic. I introduced scissors just recently, when my son was around 2.5. We started with playdough, as the scissors are all plastic, and it seemed low-stress for both of us. We are now venturing into paper, but I can’t wait to introduce more things over the holiday break. :) Thank you for supporting parents in this way!
Jenny says
I recently let my almost 2 year old use a pair of safety scissors since I was cutting activities for us and he LOVES to do whatever I am doing!! I figured out after a few minutes that they were not made to cut paper so we got out some play dough. He had a great time but quickly lost interest in the scissors since his little hands aren’t quite big enough to use them :-)
Anise Wang says
Thank you for the suggestions. I will start bring a scissor with me to restaurant!
Leila says
We started cutting activities when my son was about 3. Now, he’s 3.5 but he still does not know how to work with scissors correctly :D
Melissa Hardman says
I started my kids cutting at two and three and now at 5 They can cut as well as I can.
Kara Doyle says
Gave her scissors around 2.5 yrs to stary cutting and learning how to hold them
Jen F. says
My poor oldest didn’t get scissors until K3 Montessori. But my middle kid at early 2 has now had the chance and loves it. He helped me cut flowers and veggies this summer and now paper inside. There was a book call Yes Yes No No that has a page about baby using scissors and at first (with oldest) we always skipped that page with great disgust that it was in there…..but now we read it all the time to the 2 year old! ha How times change from kid to kid!
Heather says
I love the idea of sending them outside to cut things in nature! I encouraged my now 4 yo to cut play dough and fringes at around 2.5 y. He loves to cut up my junk mail and catalogs.
grace a slattery says
My grandson wanted to cut when we were having a yard sale and selling craft scissors. we sat in the grass and tried cutting the grass.
Amber says
My Older two started cutting with guided activities around the age of 3; my youngest just started joining in around age 2 1/2! He is my craziest and has a hard time with rules, but for that very reason I want him to know the rules of scissors. He’s always so proud when he shows me how he properly held scissors while walking to the table from the drawers (pointy side down, in his hand!). He loves to cut paper and just makes a glorious confetti mess whenever he has a chance!
Shuree Dawn says
My 3 year old cuts supervised during crafts.
Loan Cao says
I have not given my son( who is 2.5 years old) a chance to start cutting yet. But after reading this post I am confident to let him try that.
Thanks for sharing these fun activities
Christa Hyland says
Hi Jaime, I love your work. Thank you for sharing your ideas, it’s always fun to spice things up. I have a 4yr old and I allowed him to cut when he showed interest, my philosophy on life. He’s been cutting paper, my dog’s hair (oops), herbs and play doh since. I will try the pasta though, he’ll dig that!
Heather V. says
I have had my 3 year old cut strips of colored paper into confetti like pieces. Which we glued to a black background. I think this was the first cutting experience I did with her. She is 4 now and loves cutting things up.
Jodi Hoffman says
Wow! I have to admit, I never thought of some of these activities, to use with my “little friends” to practice cutting. Thank you so much, for these wonderful ideas! I start teaching my little kids at age 2-3 years old. I have them just practice holding them, to start off with. I have had a few left handers also, I found it’s easier for a left hander to figure out how the scissors works as long as they have a lefty scissors. Thank you for the oppertunity to win the give away :)
MaryAnne says
Yes!!! I believe cutting is a great fine motor skill. I began using scissors with my kids at that age of 3, with supervision, of course! I did not want them practicing on their hair or their sibling’s hair!
Jessica Everett says
I let my boys have scissors early on (around 2-3). They both love to cut the grass like dad! Also they have unsharp scissors to cut play-doh. And of course, fancy scissors for paper! I am a firm believe that with adult supervision, children should be exposed early to help with those fine motor skills. :)
Jonna says
When my kids were 3ish I gave them old magazines and scrap paper to practise cutting. Eventually we included glue sticks and construction paper, so they cut and glue. I absolutely love the idea of cutting different textures though. I’ll definitely start this with the little guy that I nanny!
Victoria says
I have 6 children, 2 are disabled. So they all started at different times. Right now we are working with our son who is disabled, he is 8 but functions at a 2 year old level. He gets so excited and just laughs every time the paper falls after he has cut it.
Zoe Tatar says
I let Scottie use children scissors when he was one and half years old. He cut some construction paper and had little pieces all over. Zoe
Melissa says
My son started at daycare cutting/tearing paper fringes right before he turned 3 years old. He also ended up cutting a few of his brand new clothes too. Not such a good thing but he loved to cut! It made him so proud of himself!
Erin says
I gave my kids scissors as soon as they could hold a pencil!
Casey says
My son is 2.5 and I haven’t started cutting with him yet. However, I have seen him at nursery school using a pair of plastic, blunt tip scissors to cut play dough.
Lisa Litzinger says
I just started teaching my daughter to cut, she’s 3. My boys were older but she’s really interested.
Amy Pessolano says
I can’t remember when my kids started cutting!! But my nephew just turned 3 and it’s one of his absolute favorite activities of all time. This post is great! I’ll be passing it on to my sister. I never even thought to have them cut playdough or food.
WD says
We haven’t done any cutting exercises yet and it’s a great time to start.
Ashley J says
I think we started around two with my oldest. She wanted to cut everything and wasn’t listening so we refrained from cutting until her listening and following directions skills were a little better. Now she is 4 and loves to use scissors and follows directions.
Amanda S. says
I think I was one that waited a bit too long with our first. I handed her some scissors at age 3, but wish I’d done it sooner. My 2-year-old has cut paper once or twice, but this post is a GREAT reminder that we need to keep practicing. And we don’t have play-doh in the house…after buying it a few times and it being left out (scattered all over her room or the house) to dry every time, I was done. But this gives me the courage to try it out again, because using it for cutting practice sounds like a wonderful activity! :) Thanks!
Wafi says
I started cutting with my 2.5 year old and he loves it. He’s not cutting like a pro or anything but really responds to the “open close” movement. What I like about it is the cause and effect relationship that it shows them.
Lois Brewer says
When did you give, or have you given, your child a chance to start cutting?
I gave my granddaughter her first pair of scissors when she was almost 3 years old. I looped a piece of yarn through the handle of the scissors and the other end of the yarn through the handle of a colander in the hopes of containing the scraps of paper; she was content for hours! I ordered a book entitled, Let’s Cutler Paper! (Rumon First Steps Workbooks) by Akaishi Shinobu ($5.95 http://www.amazon.com). She has truly enjoyed cutting pictures from that book. My granddaughter will be 5 in January and has graduated to using scissors to cut Player-Doh, noodles, foam, grass and dried leaves. It remains one of her favorite activities, often chosen over baking and finger painting! Thankfully we have not had any bang cutting episodes because I learned long ago that supervision is key to any successful activital with our children. Thank you for your site and all the wonderful ideas!
Jenny Jarvis says
My son stared cutting around 2 he Loved cutting. My daughter is still working to get the hang of it. She is three. I try to incorapte scissors into every days activites.
katie tewat says
My son is about to be 3 and just starting to figure out cutting, these rip are great for him. Now my 1 year old already wants to try scissors soI will have to figure some out for him.
Elizabeth says
I let my daughter start cutting when she was only 2…I got a wonderful Kumon cutting book, which taught her the skill, and by 3 she was a master at cutting any shape. :)
Shana Aberle says
I started my son around age 3, cutting string with scissors, and will start his sister around the same time. We cut Play-Doh, too.
Taylor O'Neal says
My first was 22 months when he used scissors. I was wrapping Christmas presents and his interest spiked. Now at 2.5 years he gets his hands on scissors about once every few months. My younger baby at 9 months it’s ready yet, but I believe she will try sooner than her brother did because she is always watching her big brother and wanting to do things he is doing.
Erony Whyte Martin says
Hi! My 3.5 year old daughter loves cutting! I think she started when she was 2 years. I’ll let her try almost anything as long as I’m next to her to supervise.
Emily says
We started with play doh scissors at age 2.
Diana says
At 18 months, my son started experimenting with cutting play dough and then quickly moved on to cutting yarn “spider webs”.
Lori Golden says
Love all the cutting ideas!! As a kindergarten teacher many of students have not idea how to use scissors before school and these are things I can do at school and give to parents as ideas for home. Thanks!
Olga says
My son is 17 month old and he has been going to a day care for the last 7
month, now I’m planning to stay home with him and his 3 month old sister. Your website is a lifesaver! We do activities with him every day and he loves it! We haven’t tried cutting with scissors yet, but the other day I got him a wooden fruit and vegetable set for knife cutting and it’s a hit! I think he would love to try cutting with scissors!
Thank you!
Amber F says
Hi Jamie,
I love your website and the super great ideas that you share. I started teaching my son, Henry, how to use scissors when he was 2 1/2 because I have a salon in my home and he’d watch me cut hair so intently that I thought I better teach him early the do’s and don’ts of scissor use. He caught on really fast to the point he was trying to cut his OWN hair. We now have created special activities (from your suggestions) for every day. Henry’s now 6 and still tries to cut his hair and other things he shouldn’t cut but that’s all part of learning. Thanks so much for your awesome ideas. BTW, I live in Iowa as well. Keep up the good work.
Amber F.
Leah Mulkey says
Our youngest was 8 years younger than our 3rd child. She thought she needed to do everything the older kids did. She began using scissors (with supervision) at 18 months. I have to say by allowing her to start that young had positive results. Her hand eye coordination was so much better than other children in her preschool class. Allowing children to develop at their own pace is the important part of any skill.
Linda says
We started George cutting somewhere around the 3 1/2 – 4 year age… it was just “straight” lines but at 5 (and a half!) he’s advanced to much more! He loves just cutting anything!
Lauren v says
I gave my daughter play doh scissors at 18 months. She’s 2 and still figuring out how to use them.
Roli says
Hi Jamie, I had no idea I could handover the scissors to child that young ! And that there are scissors for such small kids, wow !!! I do try to catch up things from good websites (as yours) as I get time from work. And my 3 year old daughter and I do lots of activities together using these ideas I get from here and there…But sadly and clearly, l miss out a lot of things.
My daughter and I are equally excited now as I showed her these pictures.. She can’t wait for the week-end to do hands on this new activity, and you have already filled both our minds with ideas..Yes, I do take her ideas too and I feel 3 year old minds are more creative as they don’t set boundaries…
I’m sure she is going to enjoy it as much as she enjoys her present passion of paint and brushes !
Crystal says
Yikes! He’s not quite 3 yet, so maybe we’ll start trying cutting activities after his third birthday? It does make me a bit nervous yet.
Cai Buck says
My son is turning 2 next week and I have been racking my brain for useful new things others can get him for presents. This was a great reminder that we need to get some loop scissors to try out. Thank you!
Andrea H says
My oldest son(now almost 4)started cutting at age 2. He was so curious and really had a good grasp on fine motor skills. My youngest is now almost 2 so this would be a great way to introduce him to scissors and how to cut.
Brooke says
What fun suggestions! I especially like the grass cutting. I’ll definitely give that a try with my kiddos this summer. My children are 2 and 5 and I let them start using scissors when they were 2. As an early childhood teacher and liaison, I know exactly how important it is to begin strengthening those fine motor skills at a very early age! Thanks for all the fun ideas!
Megan Sweeney says
I am a preschool/ Infant/Toddler teacher and I had my children in my program and we started practicing with scissors at about 17 months. They cut play dough to begin with and eventually progressed to helper scissors and real paper.
Allie says
My son is three and he is just beginning. He wasn’t interested before.
Kiersten says
My daughter is four now and i think I first have her scissors when she was two.
Roxana Dolson says
she was about 2 when I gave her paper and scissors now she loves to cut whatever I let her cut!
Crystal Smith says
When my daughter was 3 she found some scissors and gave herself a very short haircut (she did not cut herself once). I decide it was definitely time to show her what we use scissors for. She loves cutting and I try to let her do it as much as possible. She has been getting really good.
Sarah Brakke says
I put a pair of scissors in my daughter’s Christmas stocking when she was a little under 2 !
Virginia C. says
I started with my daughter around 3.5 and she is crazy about cutting. It’s one of her favorite ribs to no and can occupy her for an hour or more at a time. My son has started a bit and he is a bit over 2.5. I have to be right next to him because he is stubborn and less careful. I might have to try the spaghetti, it might even help him eat more…spaghetti is one of those things he won’t eat since he’s gotten older.
Angie says
I bought a Kumon Tracing workbook for my soon to be kindergartener for her to learn and practice cutting. She’s left-handed, so I bought a Fiskars left-handed scissors which has been so helpful! Paper dolls are another idea we have yet to try.
Jaya B says
At age three, my son and I started experimenting with safety scissors and construction paper crafts. I was still terrified but all went well!
Monica serra says
My oldest is 4 he likes to cut playdough. Honestly I don’t give him enough cutting practice since he tried cutting his clothes and his brothers books!!
Andrea says
My five kids all started cutting playdough around age 2. My youngest daughter is 4 and is an “expert”. I can’t wait to try some of you outdoor activities. She’ll have so much fun!!
Mary H says
My son is 2+. We haven’t used scissors yet but I plan on making some holiday decorations with him. We’ll use scissors then!
Jen S says
I’ve been wondering when to introduce cutting to my toddler! So far we’ve only used plastic scissors to cut play dough and he LOVES it (2 yrs 2 months)….but I’ve been curious when to let him use actual scissors for arts and crafts!
Lesly ortiz says
I started cutting with my son at about 2.5 or 3 with the scissors that don’t completely open they close and then spring open. He’s now 4 and still isn’t a huge fan but he’s definitely gotten so much better. Just got him regular scissors. Planning on trying them this week.
Amanda Porter says
I let my oldest start cutting with scissors around 18 months old. He was very vocal so it was easy to talk to him about how to use them. The 2nd is about that age and she’s already stolen a mommy pair! I’ll have to make a safe activity for her to explore with some kids ones. And my now 3 yo would love cutting grass! Or noodles! Great ideas.
Nadia says
I try to give my kids lot of opportunities to practice cutting. My older one loves to cut out paper and make small drawings or “cards” for people. My 3 year old practices cutting along lines. Today their activity on the “Christmas activity countdown” is making spiral trees, so they will practice their cutting skills today!
Dora says
When she (daughter) was you she used to help me cut paper. I started her with scraps of paper.
Kristina says
My son is two and I have not started cutting with him yet. I’m not sure how to get him to understand keeping his fingers out of the way.
Madeleine Ronning says
My youngest son started using scissors around the age of three. He gets frustrated with it. We’ve only done it with paper so I love these other suggestions! The gift basket would be a blessing for sure!
Willette Fleischman says
Hi,
I let the children begin with play dough at 2 years. Never thought of spaghetti but guess what’s on the menu for tonight? That right, spaghetti snd scissors.
Christie Martin says
Great cutting ideas, I think we’ll make the snowflakes today.
Both of my kids interest in cutting with scissors pretty early.. my old one was probably close to 3yo, and my younger one was under two when she first started cutting with scissors.
Jennifer Rusk says
My children were using scissors at about 2 years of age…we have always done crafts and I encouraged them to do it by themselves as much as possible. It’s always better when made by them :)
Bri S says
We haven’t started practicing cutting yet. I need to get some safety scissors. She just turned two. :)
Amanda N. says
I started my 5 year old cutting when he was around 3. I had lines for him to cut. With my second child, he also started cutting straight lines on paper.
Karen Riel says
I use a cutting tub in my class at the beginning of school. I put strips of construction paper and tag board in and they cut to their hearts content!
Jaime P says
Hi!
I started teaching my now three year old how to cut around his second birthday. His sister is 21 months old and we have already started her working with scissors as she ‘gets’ it better than her brother did at the same age!
Elizabeth says
I started letting my 3 year old cut when she was just over 2. She loves cutting and will sit and cut all day. I love the other than paper cutting ideas here!
Pepsi Jacobs says
I give him opportunities for cutting at meal times with his food and when we do craft activities to help him calm down. He also brings home projects from kindergarten that he uses his beginning cutting skills.
Rebekah Gienapp says
I think it was around 2 that I started giving my son scissors to cut with.
Ali V says
I have given my children many opportunities to cut things. Starting when they are young around age 2 with supervision. When we are out in our flower bed pulling weeds, well I pull weeds, they have the opportunity to cut the weeds. They love it! When we are inside we have a cutting day with paper and make snowflakes or I let them go to town on a sheet of paper.
Carolyn H says
My son is 4 and has been using scissors for about 8 months. He has little safety scissors and does very well with them.
Carmina says
My son started cutting when he was 3 years old. He cut paper and play dough. He still cuts all those things lol.
Sara B. says
I let my 2 year old son cut straws (from the Activity Room plan) and I was surprised how great he did. He is now 2 1/2 and know the correct way to hold scissors and how to use them. He just jumps right in when I let him use the scissors. Thank you Jamie for providing wonderful activities to help my son learn and develop skills in a fun way.
Laura says
Both of my boys started practicing cutting at age 2. They were well supervised and used safety scissors before graduating to a kid pair of scissors. Both love to just cut paper into scraps and pieces. The especially like to make sea creatures that have tentacles!
Rebecca F says
I was a little late to the game, but my son started with scissors when he was 3.5. I would have started a bit sooner, but baby girl came.
Heather Carlson says
I had my toddler cutting straws about 2 1/2years and he LOVED it. We also cut playdough. I hadn’t thought about bringing scissors outside-great idea. Thanks for the post.
Angelique Mortensen says
I think my daughter (4 yrs) has started cutting in preschool but not often. She’s really interested in scissors so I bought her some plastic Crayola Ines off Amazon with good ratings but they stunk!! They cut water much less paper or anything else! After spending money on something that doesn’t work, and bow in stuck with, I haven’t gone back to try again. She sis, however, investigate my Fiskars while I was out if the room and cut a lovely hole in her pajamas shirt!
Laura Q. says
I’ve only recently started letting my daughter use scissors since she turned two. She loves to cut paper, and it’s so great for her fine motor skills. I love this post! I had never thought of using scissors with play dough. I bet she will love that!
Anne Gutendorf says
I started letting my little one try to cut when she was 2. There was a lot more ripping than cutting but she loved to put her fingers in the hole and make the scissors “go”. I love these cutting ideas! going to try the straw one with my 2nd little guy tonight after school! Thanks for all your good ideas!
Julie U says
My kids started cutting by a year and a half
Ariana Herrera says
I can’t even recall when my Sienna started cutting with scissors. She came home one day from day care and showed me a heart she had cut out all by herself. We promptly bought scissors for her to cut at home. That was last Christmas. We was almost three.
Belinda says
I gave my daughter her first opportunity to use scissors only a few months ago at around 2.5 years old.
hannah lee says
at the ripe age of 2!
Jerri Erickson says
We start at three.
Katrina Drieman says
My kids were different ages when I first stayed them with scissors. My oldest was two. She is very meticulous in everything she does. She enjoyed using them. My middle is 3 and she is just now starting. But she is wold like her mama and requires oh so careful supervision! My littlest is one. Maybe play doh scissors for him…but he still really likes to eat the play doh! Lol
Debbie Dominguez says
I have helped my daughter homeschool her two children, a soon-to-be 3 y/o and a nearly 5 y/o. We started early this year letting the 4 y/o cut paper, yarn, noodles, etc. She has offered to cut things for me too! The 3 y/o will hopefully start soon.
renee stokman says
Great ideas and suggestions, especially with cutting straws and food, thanks!
savita fanta says
yes! at age 3
Shannon Ross says
My 3 and 4 year old have been taught to cut with gardening exercises (pruning small shrubs and plants) and craft activities. They began learning about scissors, shears, and pruners (they call them “nippers”) as soon as they were interested and could hold them properly. We first discussed the safety about the blades, and still have reminder sessions before each time they are used.
Tamieka Baker says
This is so great!! I have twin 4 year old girls and I’ve allowed them to cut paper and other soft items since they were 3 years old. They feel like big girls when they can cut things out on their own. I’m looking forward to doing some of these activities with them. Thank you so much for sharing these great ideas!
Kris Kennedy says
My 3-year-old is obsessed with cutting things and collecting the pieces in ziplocs bags! Nobody knows what he’s saving them for, but we aren’t allowed to toss them. He loves to use the scissors!
Beverly Hicks says
We just started “playing with scissors”. My three year old twins love cutting playdough and are just starting the experiment with paper. Grip is definitely a process! I love the grass idea!
Brandy Lindley says
My oldest started around 3, and my youngest is 2 1/2 and ready to start!
Kate Astor says
Just after his 3rd birthday. He was about to transition to a new daycare center rather than in-home care. I had a feeling they would expect him to have some idea. They were difficult for him to manipulate at first, but now he’s almost 4 and has learned so much!
Jenn O'Neill says
My twins are just over 1.5yrs and we started ripping paper (my daughter loves it, while my son likes to make it into a ball). We moved on to scissors a few days ago but it was more just to peak their interest and hand over as they always watching me when I had the scissors.
Alice sunseri says
My 3 year old has been cutting for about 6 months. Cuts spaghetti play dough. Really anything. He loves “tools”. We’re all a little nervous about him free wheeling in the yard with them because he has zero impulse control ???
Bobby Adams says
I have started cutting activities with my toddlers. We first started with tearing papers , which we still do to continue to build their fine motor skills. My toddlers love to cut and will cut at all opportunities.
AMber says
I started letting my little boy cut with scissors at age 3. He loves it still and has gotten better with each activity.
Anne Brands says
I gave my child a chance to cut around one. She was really struggling with fine motor skills and this is a good way to help build those skills. We had a pair of spring loaded scissors so she would not need to use as much strength. I also had a pair of helper scissors that had holes for the child’s fingers on the inside and the parent’s fingers on the outside. These were a big help when cutting shapes and not just straight lines. I teach preschool and it is very difficult working with children who have never been given the opportunity to cut. With appropriate supervision, children can and should begin cutting at a very young age.
Ashley Goldring says
As soon as a child shows interest and the ability to rip papers, then I introduce the scissors! I love the idea of cutting “nature” as a fine motor practice.
Araceli Kimberlin says
My kindergartner loves cutting at home and at school. Great ideas for practicing.
Rose says
Hi Jamie!
You asked “When did you give, or have you given, your child a chance to start cutting?”.
It’s so funny to have received this post this morning of all days. Just yesterday, we received a package of many different sizes of photo frames, each individually shrink wrapped. My son is always so excited whenever we get packages; he wished and wished to be the one to open it! So I asked him to go get his scissors. He ran for it! So excited. I let him open the tape, and he learned the easiest way to open the package was by cutting the ape rather than the cardboard. When he unpacked each frame, he asked could he open them as well. So I let him, cut and cut each individually wrapped one, and he developed his very own system of opening them!
It was such fun to watch him learn and develop through each experience.
I even thought to myself I should photograph him; sadly I didn’t…
Also, a few days ago, we had our first experience making snowflakes! Someone gifted us with a tin of cookies that come in little white tissue-paper cups. Since they are already round, we had great fun folding them into pie pieces and cutting shapes out of them to make snowflakes. This was our family activity for the day, and we had so much fun doing it. I put a big shallow tray under his project space to minimize cleanup and a big bowl on the table for scraps! It worked great!!
Thanks for the post about other cutting ideas. We’ll have to try some of yours :-)
Tara Tayyabkhan says
We love cutting! I gave her blunt-tipped scissors just before she was three. We started with paper, I think. Wish I had thought harder about choices. Lately, she’s been calling her cutting projects ‘knitting projects’.
Jill I says
My son was about 2 years old when I let him start to use scissors. He always watched me clip coupons and wanted to help. We kept a pair of plastic scissors in our play dough toys too.
Sandy Mooney says
My grandson Koltyn (3) loves when his meemaw provides him with hands on activities. My granddaughter (7) will enjoy cutting up straws to make necklaces.
I continue to share your website with young mothers I come in contact with.
Thanks for all your wonderful ideas!
Nicole Mancino says
I haven’t given A (just turned 3) the chance to use real scissors. I’m such a wuss!!! She’s used dull plastic ones to cut slime and playdoh though and she’s done great! Kids safety scissors would definitely be a good idea for us though.
Angela Choat-Wieder says
My child tried to use scissors at 2, but couldn’t quite get it.
Charlotte Sparks says
I always let my own children cut {with scissors} from early ages. Both daughters cut cereal boxes, yarn, old magazines, etc. When I was a preschool teacher, I did the same things.
Alison Crain says
My daughter loves cutting with scissors! We started cutting playdoh at 1.5, and plastic kids scissors have been at her art station for free play since age 2 (they cut paper and not much else). She just turned 3 and is a cutting machine! Love the idea about cutting grass. Not sure when I will let her free play with metal kids scissors (meaning will leave them out all the time at her coloring table), maybe 5! But we will definitely be getting some metal kids scissors to cut the grass this spring! Fun :)
Dana Downey says
I never would have introduced scissors as early as I did, if a friend hadn’t posted her son using them at 18 months. I gave it a try, but he wasn’t interested. We tried different scissors for the next year. He finally showed an interest around 2 1/2 and although not very skilled, he does like to cut now.
Cindy Scally says
I haven’t tried it yet, but I think I’ve been persuaded after reading this article.
Yay!
Becky Gilson says
I started my kids on cutting as soon as I felt they were able to understand the importance of how to handle scissors (and of not chasing me down with them in hand). :-)
Sarah Robinson says
My kids were try when I first tried it was not a success. But I kept trying. Now they help cut green onions. They love to cut paper. I’m excited to try some of your other ideas.
Sarah Robinson says
*two*. They were two.
Dema Kohen says
My son just turned 3 and cutting activities weren’t anywhere on my mind. Thanks to your post, I feel encouraged and equipped to introduce my son to this essential skill.
Mandy Kent says
I try to give my kiddo opportunities to cut frequently. He struggles with all fine motor skills, and I use your blog to find fun new activities to keep him interested in trying skills that are hard for him. I also work at a school designed for kiddos with autism as an OT assistant. Your blog has been very beneficial when planning treatment sessions. I would be very excited to win all the goodies from Fiskar, and they would all be used frequently to benefit my kiddo, and the kiddos I serve.
Emily Vater says
I haven’t thought about scissors with my 2 year old but it might be time! He’s definitely showing an interest when he sees me use my scissors.
Lori Adamson says
I start teaching my children how to cut around 3 years of age. I am a family child care provider.
Ariane Lanzdorf says
I have given 3 out of 5 kids a chance to start cutting . My daughter loves to cut fringe on paper and say it’s for decoration to go with the drawing she made. My other two girls can cut very well unless it’s tight corners or small pieces as they tend to get frustrated easily ! All my kids are artists in some form which makes me very happy that they are so creative :)
Melanie says
Thanks for hosting the giveaway! I would like to enter. ? I usually just let my kiddos start cutting when they show an interest. I don’t remember an age for each one but my 4yo son is the one currently learning to use scissors. No specific shapes yet, I just give him scraps of paper that he can cut up. ?
Darby Horner says
I started my oldest at age 3. She was interested and it build essential fine motor skills.
Erin Meier says
Great ideas! My three year old loves to cut things with his scissors but we have been mostly using paper. So boring now that I think about it! Just decided to add new scissors to the kids stockings this year! thanks
Jessica Guzman says
My son began cutting with his play doh scissors at 18 months. He loved it!
Kristin Gideon says
My child just started cutting last week…we are differently learning! She loves it for sure!
Denise Robinson says
My daughter started cutting with scissors when she was three years old.
Andi Langdon says
My daughter is 2, so probably this summer we will start cutting.
Justine Bossard says
We haven’t done much curing work yet, partly because we don’t have kid sized scissors and partly because I don’t want to worry about finding a good hiding place for the scissors so they don’t cut up everything in sight! I have three boys, ages 4, 3 and 1. The older two have played around with play dough scissors, but that’s about it. They’re showing interest, so maybe I’ll get some scissors and try these activities :-)
Dana Shore says
My son first started cutting at about age 2. Mostly playdough then. He loooves to use his scissors. These are some awesome ideas for him to do more then just shred paper!!
Yvette Lewis-Carrier says
I haven’t started my son cutting but he hasn’t shown any interest yet. I think this is the perfect way to start!
Susan says
Age 3
Kristina Goode says
Wonderful ideas to get the kiddos cutting more!!! I homeschool our 3 girls; 8 yr old twins and our toddler that turned 3 in September. Our youngest started showing an interest in cutting at 2 1/2. I can’t wait to try the nature cutting projects today; we love anything involving nature!! Thank you For the great ideas!!??
Kristin Gideon says
Hi Kristin,
I am a Pre-K Resource Coordinator and I just love everything that you offer. I am thinking back to the time when I gave my son and daughter a chance to cut using scissors. I would have to say when they were around 4 years old, I had given them a Toys R Us circular full of toys and asked them to cut-out the toys that they would like for Christmas. Of course, they cut out almost every toy in the circular which meant that got a lot of cutting experience!
Sincerely,
Kim Bourgeois
Valerie Hamilton says
I generally start them around age 2. That’s when they have enough coordination to not hurt themselves! I draw a face on their thumbnail, and tell them they have to always be able to see the face when they’re cutting-it helps them learn to position their hands properly.
Cacia Lesh says
I haven’t given my twin boys scissors yet…they are 2 1/2. Some of your activities look perfect for them, so maybe it’s time to give it a try!
Megan DiMattia says
At 21/2 my daughter took off with cutting paper into “confetti” and the fringing. She would stay with it for a good 30mins every time and daily would ask to do it– or else start climbing to get her supplies!
Rachel says
My daughter is about to turn 3 and I haven’t tried any cutting with her yet. Planning to get scissors for her birthday and start soon!
Kayla says
I teach in ECE and I always want to try my lessons out on my young daughter. She did so well with cutting that she thought she should give herself a haircut. Thankfully it wasn’t very noticeable and that experience made my lesson with my students better!
LP says
Great post! I have an almost 19 month old. What age do you think we should start using scissors?
Gloria Williams says
My grandson began to use scissors about the age of 2 1/2 when he saw that his older sister was using them. He turned five in November. When school began this fall I purchased a pair of Fiskars for him and he loves them. They cut so much easier than the others we were using did.
Gloria Williams says
My grandson began to use scissors about the age of 2 1/2 when he saw that his older sister was using them. He turned five in November. When school began this fall I purchased a pair of Fiskars for him and he loves them. They cut so much easier than the others we were using did.
Gloria Williams says
My grandson began to use scissors about the age of 2 1/2 when he saw that his older sister was using them. He turned five in November. When school began this fall I purchased a pair of Fiskars for him and he loves them. They cut so much easier than the others we were using did.
April. Powell says
I let My kids use scissor at 2.5 to let them start learning how to use scissors
Kristine H says
I have two year old twins and the only time they touched scissors was in a mommy and me class. I guess I should start them soon
Neisha Whitehead says
My soon to be six year old enjoys cutting and she can cut out just about anything with good competence. My two year old also enjoys cutting and can be trusted to cut only paper with minimal supervision. He hasn’t yet gotten the hang of cutting paper in 2 pieces, but he loves to snip and tear.
Tammy says
Have given my almost 4 y.o. grandson several chances & cutting activities since he was 2. Last week was the last chance for awhile. He cut his hair again! This time it had to be almost shaved to fix it. He will get another chance & I’ll be sure not to even blink this time. LOL
Shauna says
Love these cutting ideas, we started exploring cutting with my son when he was 2 1/2, he loves it, thanks Shauna
Michelle says
I usually start when they are 3 and can follow the basic rules of handling scissors (always sitting, only cutting what I’ve given them, etc.)
Kristin Gideon says
Love all these ideas! My boys love using scissors. We started letting them use them with guidance around age 2.
Kristina says
Thank you for your articles. They have been very helpful for my first child who is two. I plan to start her with cutting soon. She is starting to show interest. Its scary but I know it is good for her to learn.
Linda says
I let mine start cutting around age 3. I love the idea of cutting nature. Definitely incorporating that soon!
Amy says
I let mine start around 2 1/2. She loved to cut things. I teach preschool 3-5 year olds and my classroom has paper all over floor everyday. The students just love to cut and glue. I love it!!!
Linda says
We started cutting around 3 years old. I love the idea of cutting nature! Definitely going to incorporate that soon!
Stephanie says
We gave our kids scissors between 2 and 3?
Michelle says
My son showed an interested in cutting paper at age 3. He wanted to cut lines to look like fringe. It made him so happy I couldn’t say no (as long as I was with him!)
jill says
I let my kids cut playdough and silly puddy around two. We had squeeze scissors that were beginning scissors. We made sure that they knew that it was a table activity that mom or dad needed to be with them for.
Megan says
I also didn’t give my daughter a pair of scissors to practice cutting until her teacher did; she was three. My son, who is two years younger than her, started using scissors at two years old because he wanted to do everything his sister was doing. I love the idea for having a pair of scissors at meal time to give them some independence and practice their cutting skills. Thanks for all the inspiring ideas!
Stacy says
As a leftie, scissors were a challenge as a child until my parents found a pair of Fiskars for me many moons ago. I have used them ever since and introduced my daughter to the spring-loaded ones when she was 2. I work as a pediatric PT in schools and listened to my Teacher and OT colleagues concern that so many children were not allowed to use scissors before they started school so we made sure we started early at our house! I love the idea of nature cutting – we will have to give that idea a try.
Andrea says
I didn’t let my older son start using scissors until he was 4, but my younger son we started at 2 1/2 and it is amazing what he is able to do. I love this site and have gathered so many great ideas. Thank you, Jamie!
Brittany says
I let both of my children start cutting somewhere around 2. We started with plastic scissors on Play Doh. When we started cutting paper is also when they learned how to use the Dust buster for vacuuming all the little bits!
Jessica Compton says
My boys didn’t start cutting until age 3. But my daughter dbowed an interest at 2.5.
Theresa Gage says
We gave our children the chance to use scissors the first day they came to us. It was surprising how many of them have never had a chance to use scissors. We cut drinking straws with them. They really love having them in the play dough that we make. Scissors rock paper with fine motor skills!
Ashley says
I started my kids out at the same time, since my son would have a fit if he wasn’t included. My son is 2.5 yrs. He gets upset because he can’t cut and hold the paper so I normally hold the paper and he cuts. He loves it. My daughter is 4 and she got that skill right away. She even cuts out her site words flashcards and makes and reads sentences with them!!!!
Thank you for all your wonderful ideas. We love them!!!!
Christina Sutfin says
Yes! I put safety scissors in my 3 year olds hand as soon as he asked. It wasn’t efficient cutting but it was great practice. We try each time we get crafty. I love these suggestions for taking practice out into the world!
Tamara says
I let my child start cutting around 3.
Jenna says
We started early, and with paper – and each kid a little younger than the last, because that’s how it goes!
Gina says
My daughter showed interest around 2.5 years old and loves to cut construction paper and then glue the pieces. We also have a play dough kit with scissors she loves to use. I never thought about having her cut straws – she loves stringing them on yarn so I bet she’ll love cutting them herself! Will definitely be trying that!
Michelle W. says
Love these ideas! My son has started being curious about scissors, which makes my husband very nervous!
Nicole g says
Age 3 for my daughter, and age 5 for my son. He is delayed 2 years in fine motor skills. He recently is learning how to cut a straight line and cutting simple shapes, I love the idea of bringing the cutting outside!
Diane says
Age 2 ?
Wendy says
My son started getting practice cutting at age 3. We just use paper so far, but some of these ideas look intriguing. Thanks for the ideas.
Celina says
My daughters seemed to have an interest in cutting around the age of 3. Love these ideas! Thanks!
Lila says
I’ve relaxed a lot with the second child. Our oldest didn’t have scissors til 4, but little sis has been using them since she turned 2.
Kelly says
Yes at age 2 with lots of supervision
Robin A says
Both my boys, 5 and 3, LOVE cutting. They started using safety scissors around 15-18months. Both now love stealing my fun scissors to give their papers a fun edge. And they sometimes borrow the paper cutter to cut lots of strips. The 3 year old can sit and just cut paper for an hour so when he’s having a rough day and needs something to calm him he’ll get the scissors and paper to cut. We do lots of scrap paper crafts to use up all the scraps of cut paper ?.
Erin says
My three year old helped me cut ribbon for wrapping gifts just yesterday! My oldest was about the same age when I let her try. Thanks for the practice ideas :)
Wendy Turner says
Thank you SO much for this post! My little guy is only 18 months old so we are not doing the scissor thing just yet, but I (as a new Mom) have wondered how to exactly introduce scissors as its a little frightening! lol This post answered ALL of my questions!! So to answer the question from your email, I obviously have not introduced scissors yet, but I know the time is coming soon!! Now I am excited about it, not scared! :)
Nicole says
Age 3
Tammy says
I am always amazed at what my son can do when I first think he is too young but I introduced him to cutting, he is 2 and although he still needs some help he is picking up on it and fascinated with it.
Tina says
My baby will be two on the 16th! So we are going to start practicing with scissors for cutting dough and Christmas cards. He has been eyeing my scissors for months now, I promised him a pair for his birthday.
JeanMarie says
I give my friends at least twice a week to practice cutting; paper, straws, playdoh, slime, and pictures to cut out and glue. Going to try the spaghetti this week !
Tabatha jacques says
I started my kids cutting things around 15 months
Jessica says
I passed her the real scissors after about a week of playing “hair salon” on her stuffed animals with the pretend scissors. Age 2. We went straight to the playdough and cut cut cut!
Katie Farris says
I have three daughters (the oldest is 3!) and I have, for some reason, been afraid to start scissor/cutting skills. I don’t know if it is my fear of them cutting their hair or what. I love the idea of cutting grass and play dough. I don’t tend to think of things like this. My girls love play dough and this is a great way to add to that fun! I can’t wait till warm weather comes and they can cut our grass. Haha!
Katherine says
My daughter started with playdoh scissors at almost 2. She was introduced to “real” scissors with paper about 9 months later at pre-school. Looking forward to trying straw cutting and making necklaces she loves projects!
Tonya says
My oldest has just turned 3 and I am just now starting to think about cutting.
Lourie says
I love the emails I get and have used the activities for the last two years. my toddler is always willing to have a go at anything and I think you have made me a better mom .my much older kids(18+) even love to have ago when they see their little brother having so much fun. The internet was not as it is when my older children were small. It’s a really useful tool and my friends children love coming round to do the activities I get online.
U.K. Mum
Ashley says
I started both my kids recently. my 4 year old daughter lovess to cut. She even cuts out her flash cards for site words then makess and reads sentences with them. My son is 2.5 year old.He got mad he couldn’t hold the paper and cut so I hold the paper and let him cut. He still has alot of practice to do but my daughter totally gets it!
Tonya says
My oldest is 3 years, and I am just now starting to think about introducing scissors.
Shay Vogg says
I started mine cutting at two and half or so….as I mentioned..paper everywhere! My Kindergartner loved to cut random things and glue them to scraps of paper and then tape them all over the house…oh the clutter! (Deep breaths….)?
Nicole F says
This year, when my son was a young 3, I started him out cutting Play Doh. But…I can’t wait to try the straw exercise you showed in your post.
Willette says
Wesley and Wyatt both began by cutting play dough when they were around 2 years old. They were very interested in cutting everything! Wesley is now 3 and uses scissors most every day. Yesterday he cut the straw in his juice box so short he could not drink it ? He thought it was great fun to see the straw in small pieces. Wyatt is now in kindergarten and is quite accomplished in his cutting.
Dani Richey says
I started letting my son cut play doh around 2 1/2 years old. The fact that he likes cutting has kept me doing cutting activities with him.
Chris Bolin says
I haven’t started cutting with my grandson as of yet, he’s 4. I am excited to start after reading everything you posted. Thanks so much for the info.
Ashley says
I bought a pair of child safe scissors and a Sesame Street themed cutting workbook for my daughter when she was barely 2 because I was so excited to let her develop a new skill. She still can’t really do the intended workbook cutting activities, but at almost 3 1/2 she loves to cut a piece of paper into her own imaginative designs!
Amanda Roby says
I’ve been letting my nearly-five-year-old work with scissors for at least two years, but I’ve not introduced my three-year-old to them yet. I want to do more work with them both on that!
Blythe Mathews says
I started letting my kids play with scissors by age 3
Shay Vogg says
Thanks for the snowflake idea!! Perfect for my younger one…used to follow you for my older one but my younger child is really benefitting from these activities now.
Guess the Fiskars scissors will just add to the scraps of paper already all over my floor! :)
Crystal says
I let my children start cutting early. As early as they could hold the scissors, I allowed them to use with my coaching and supervision. I wanted them tone familiar with scissors and have an idea how robust them so the scissors wouldn’t be a “mystical” wonder that they could never touch!
Holly says
As with most thinks I let my kids start exploring using scissors when they show interest. With my 5 kids that has ranged from 18 months to 4 years old.
Brittney Phelps says
My son absolutely loves cutting with scissors! He doesn’t hold them correctly, he still uses two hands, and I have to help hold the paper or whatever we are cutting for him to do it, but he loves it and I am really excited to try some of these ideas! We started introducing scissors when he was probably about 18 months old and he is 2 1/2 now. Thanks for all these great suggestions!
Michelle says
I started my kids cutting at about age 3 1/2 -4. So many of the students I work with come into kindgergarten having never been exposed to scissors. It then becomes a “race” to get them caught up, not only with the actual skill of cutting, but also how to move their body with the scissors (using both hands together, manipulating the paper, etc) and increasing the hand strength that comes with cutting. Cutting is a big activity for me in our classrooms :-)
I do caution parents though……for the younger kids, make sure you delineate between their using scissors for play and the beautician who cuts their hair!
Susan says
My oldest child started cutting at around age 3 with blunt scissors. The two younger ones started a little earlier because they wanted to keep up with their older sister.
Jewell says
I haven’t gotten my daughter scissors yet. She turns 2 tomorrow.
Eliz D says
I teach Pre-K kiddos (ages 3-5) and I let all my kiddos cut. For my beginners, I let them cut up food ads from the grocery store or old magazines. As needed I might do the hand over hand to help guide them. As the kiddos get older, I give them more challenging “projects” to cut (IE: cutting out a circle or square).
Valerie Johnson says
I love those ideas. Being able to use the scissors on other things than paper. We use foam sheets sometimes when trying to introduce cutting skills. I’ve started my kiddos at around 18 months just to get the idea of being safe with scissors and learning about them. Really helps as they get older!
Tiffany says
I let my little one start cutting at 2.5 years old. He’s almost 3.5 and does a really good job now. I have him practice cutting along thick lines to improve. He adores cutting play dough. He can do it for a long time. Lol
Margee says
I printed some pages of cutting practice sheets. The kids follow the lines from bottom to top. I’m going to offer them the opportunity to cut straws next. We have lots of yarn to string them onto.
Laura Andres says
I introduced my children to scissors at age 3 by cutting play doh.
Liz says
I tried cutting strips with my 3 yr old a couple of months ago. She was doing pretty good too. We had a rogue incident where she cut the string on a bracelet that she had so after talking about what we cut and don’t cut the scissors went away for a while. We brought them back out for this holiday season to make a count down chain. She was cutting much longer strips with some encouragement and tape (to fix the strips accidentally cut right through). She loves the finished chain and I feel we are at a better place to do more cutting activities again. :)
Lourie says
Hello Jamie, thank you for sharing all these great ideas! I am a homeschool mom of a 5 and 2.5 years old. My 5 year already has had many opportunities with scissor skills, however, we need to try the nature cutting. I think she will enjoy that! :) My 2.5 year old has shown interest in cutting since he sees the older sister. He has tried cutting homemade play dough, cardstock paper and his favorite, cutting straws. Thanks again for all your post and activity books, we use them daily! ?
Anne says
I let my kids cut from early, early on. This week my toddlers (ages 22 and 24 mos) are using our spring-action scissors to snip up paper while I do history lessons with the older kids. We have a “cutting” bin that is always stocked with ads, straws, rubber bands, old greeting cards, tin foil, glittery paper, sandpaper, and a pair of safety scissors so my preschoolers and school-age kids can practice cutting to their hearts’ content. :)
Amy says
I think my daughter was about 3 on the nose when she started cutting. My son is 2 and a little dangerous when it comes to crafts so he is not ready yet. He doesn’t listen well enough to instructions regarding safety so we just let him rip.
Melissa whitehead says
I love cutting. Teaching kids to cut is amazing. As a teacher I encourage parents to help assist with their child’s cutting skills. I just love to see young children master the scissors.
Denise D. says
Hello I am a preschool teacher and i encourage all my students to start cutting at age 2. When I tell the parents they cut with scissors some of their faces are priceless. The children love having the responsibility of using such an important tool. I walk them through and sing a little song: open shut them open shut them give a little snip snip snip. The smiles of accomplishment fills the room.
Katherine S says
I think all 4 of my kids started with scissors around 3 or 4 years old.
Zoe Moore says
I started introducing scissors somewhere in between 3-4 with playdough and playdough scissors .
Jennifer O'Hare says
With supervision, between 2and 3 is a good age to begin scissor practice. I love all the ideas, especially the snowflakes, and am gonna use it with y students at school.
Cinnamon Garner says
My two year old has started cutting activities using safety scissors. So far we have only worked on cutting paper, but I am definitely going to let her cut her dough the next time we make it. These are great ideas. Thanks!
Kristie Springer says
I started letting my daughter cut lines on paper last year at 3. The straw cutting and making it into jewelry is a great idea. I haven’t thought about that since my kindergarten years. Lol
Lindsay Sutherland says
Great ideas here, I will try the straw cutting with my 4 and a half year old, I think he’ll love it! I started him with scissors when he was 3…cutting play dough :) I have a 21 month old and she sees her older brother using scissors so she wants to try (with safe scissors). I let her try but she can’t really cut anything yet…but she is getting practice holding the scissors which is good :)
N E says
We started young…around 2.5.
She would slice once and then rip the rest of the page, but a month or so later, she really got it!
Laura says
I have started cutting with my children around 2 1/2. I start using training scissors that are really great. I also love Kumon books to help with practicing.
Brenda Lloyd says
I introduced scissors and cutting to my granddaughter when she was 3. We used a lot of scraps of cardstock from other projects and graduated to paper with designs and shapes on it.
Cynthia Lindsay says
Love the activities for my class of special needs students
Rachel Miller says
Our first is twenty one months old and she will be getting scissors in her stocking!!!
AMy says
My son started with the beginner scissors a few months before he turned three. Since then it’s been one of his favorite things to do at our craft table.
Shavonne D says
I just started with scissors with my 3 yr old over the summer…we started with cutting play dough just playing…then in September I started doing preschool at home with him and we practiced cutting for some of our projects we have been doing. He is really starting to enjoy cutting!!
Brandie Richardson says
My 1 year olds start learning with the big kids at the. Activity table (no blades with play doh..
Kay says
My kids were cutting by 2, maybe earlier. We cut all kinds of things. Playdough was one of the first things.
Natasha says
Great ideas for scissor practice. Both of my kiddos actually started using scissors at about 2.5 years old. I remember being so nervous with my first. My son, however, kind of learned from his older sister. I think he would love some of these ideas.
Traci Sekulovski says
I let my daughter start cutting things when she was four!
Joy says
My now 8 yr old started cutting at school around 3 to years old ?. My 3 yr old son just tried cutting 2 months ago. Lol. The grandparents were there to supervise while I was at work. Love this post!!
Aparna says
I gave scissors to both my kids just around the age of 2. We love snipping yarn, play dough, straws, leaves, U name it!
Melissa says
My started using scissors when he was just over 2. My middle daughter was 3. The baby is just over 1 so not ready yet but I will start with her once I think she is ready ( probably sometime between 2 and 3.)
Julie Deadwyler says
Love the cutting nature idea. I’m definitely going to try that with my boys. I got Davis started with using scissors shortly after he turned 3 with cutting paper strips and he loves using scissors now…asks to do it often.
Michelle Schmid says
I give my two year olds scissors. I am a two year old teacher. I have nine two year olds to work with.
Barb Yurich says
My favorite cutting activity for kids is to give them old newspapers and magazines and let them go to town with the scissors. There is no wrong way to cut up a newspaper! Slow, fast, long, or short-just keep cutting!
Karen says
Jamie,
Thank you for the straw idea! It was a big hit with my 4-1/2-year-old. Previously scissors kind of mystified him but the straws popping all over the place was too much fun!! Thank you!