Clothespin Clip the Leaf

Tools

1. Clothespins PDF (Click Here)

2. Scissors (cut out PDF in advance)

Activity Description

Let's practice counting by clipping the leaves onto the tree branch. We'll need two hands for this activity and our "crocodile fingers" (thumb and index finger) ready!

Steps

• Step 1: Print out the PDF and cut with scissors in advance.

• Step 2: Choose a tree branch, name the number on the tree branch, and begin clipping the leaves to the tree branch by using a clothespin. Don't forget to use your "crocodile fingers" (thumb and index finger) when clipping the clothespin.

Goals

Children will practice counting when attaching the leafs to the branch. When pinching the clothespin with "crocodile fingers" (thumb and index finger), children are strengthening a neat pincer grasp and the little muscles of those fingers. Tucking the rest of the fingers into the palm of the hand helps to develop separation of the hand. This activity is a precursor to scissor cutting.