Cutting with scissors is a valuable fine motor exercise that helps prepare children for the start of school. Through cutting exercises, such as cutting out snake or zigzag lines, children improve their fine motor skills and learn how to handle scissors. Cutting along a pre-drawn line helps the child coordinate their hand movements and guide the scissors safely. For example, draw a thick, colorful wavy or zigzag line on a sheet of paper and turn the exercise into a fun game. Turn the snake line into a »cutting monster« by giving it eyes and a mouth. This way, your child can »feed« the monster by following the line and »cutting« it with your encouragement. This creative approach makes the activity fun and motivating. Even if the cuts are imprecise at first, your child will become more skilled and confident over time.

Patience and encouragement instead of pressure
‍In the early years, children need encouragement and support from their parents more than anything else. Avoid saying things like: »At your age, you should already be able to do that.« Instead, motivate your child with positive feedback: »Look how well you're doing!« This will boost your child's self-confidence and foster a love of discovery. If your child is not yet interested in drawing or cutting at the age of four, there is no need to worry. Every child develops at their own pace. They might prefer drawing with chalk or shaping figures out of play dough. The important thing is that you always provide your child with scissors, pencils, and paper. Eventually, they will reach for the pencil or scissors on their own, noticing that you also use these tools.

Promoting motor skills in everyday life
‍In addition to targeted cutting exercises, there are many ways to support your child's fine motor skills in everyday life. Activities such as spreading butter on bread or getting dressed independently are exercises that help develop hand dexterity and independence. It is equally important to strengthen your child's gross motor skills, as they form the foundation for finer motor movements. Regular play at the playground or running around in the park will help improve your child's body coordination. In this way, you spend valuable time together while also strengthening their motor skills and emotional bond.