Most children learn to use scissors when they receive their first pair of safety scissors. And eventually, regular scissors take the place of safety scissors. But mom, there’s no need to worry. Here are 7 tips for making sure your child stays safe when using scissors.
1. Teach the Correct Holding Method
Show your child how to use their thumb and third finger to hold their scissors. Your child’s index and middle fingers will not allow the child to get the safest and most efficient grip. You can also show the child how to place the scissors against a tabletop to gain better control during cutting.
2. Choose the Best Scissors for the Job
Different types of cutting tasks require different types of scissors. When cutting fabric, your child will do best by using pinking shears. But small scissors with thin blades are best for trimming loose threads. And to cut decorative shapes for craft projects, your child might want decorative scissors that cut a pre-designed shape.
3. Cut in the Right Direction
The proper direction for cutting is away from the body. Show your child how to cut in a forward direction. This means the blades should always point away from the child’s body. Cutting in this direction keeps little fingers, legs, hands, arms, and the tummy safe. It’s also easier if a left-handed child cuts from left to right and a right-handed child cuts from right to left.
4. Safely Share Scissors
Teach your child to always pass scissors handle first. First, make sure the blades are securely closed. Show your child how closed scissor blades overlap. This way they’ll always know when the blades are closed. Then instruct the child to wrap their palm around the blades and pass the scissors handle first. And if the scissors fall, let them hit the ground before picking them up.
5. Teach Proper Scissor Posture and Behavior
Never run with scissors is a warning to share with your child. In addition to running, your child should also avoid jumping or climbing while holding scissors. And the best position for using scissors is sitting or standing still with a straight back. Also, show your child how to keep their wrist in a neutral position when cutting. No weird positions or angles allowed.
6. Keep the Scissors Sharp and Well-Maintained
Mom, this tip is strictly for you. Your child will have an easier time cutting if the scissors are sharp. Dull scissors require more force and effort to cut even the most simple things. The inner blades of the scissors should remain sharp. It also helps to occasionally oil the screw slot and the hinge to keep cutting smooth.
Scissors: More than Just Arts and Crafts
Scissors are great when it’s time to do arts and crafts. But scissors also teach children how to develop fine motor skills, which is very important. Remember to keep the above safety tips in mind when it’s time for your child to pull out the scissors.
