Scissor Tips

Using scissors is a skill that we adults have been comfortable with for so long that we forget how tricky this can be for small hands! By teaching kids a few basic rules for working with scissors, we can help them gain the skills to be both effective and safe when using this important tool!

1. Always point the scissors away from you when cutting.

2. Turn the paper when necessary, rather than turning your scissors, so you can keep them pointed straight ahead!

3. When cutting several shapes from one piece of paper, it’s helpful to cut the paper into smaller pieces first, cutting only roughly around each shape, before making the more precise or detailed cuts.

4. If you need to walk with scissors or pass them to another student, always hold them with the tips pointing down, with your hand covering the blades.

It’s interesting how kids will instinctively turn their scissors when cutting, instead of turning the paper, until someone teaches them otherwise. Then they’re amazed when they learn how much easier it is to just turn the paper! Watching you demonstrate will help them see the difference. They will still need occasional reminders until this becomes a habit, but it’s a habit worth forming!