Threading beads on a shoelace

Age
3-6

Materials

 * Beads of different colors in a bowl. Begin exercise with large beads to medium and then small beads.
 * Shoe laces in a small plate.

Preparation
This is an individual presentation.

Presentation

 * 1) Directress ties a knot at the end of the shoelace.
 * 2) Then, the Directress shows the child how to take the shoelace in the right hand and a bead in the left hand.
 * 3) Hold the unknotted end of the shoelace with the left hand and move the bead with the right hand till the beads reach the end of the shoelace, ensuring the threaded beads stay on the table.
 * 4) Continue threading the rest of the beads.
 * 5) When finished, show the child how to remove the beads.
 * 6) Make sure the threaded beads stay on the table.
 * 7) Use the left hand to hold the bead to be removed and slide it out of the shoe lace, while the right hand hold the shoelace in between the bead removed and the rest of the beads.
 * 8) Place the beads into the bowl.
 * 9) Allow the child to take over ass soon as he wishes.

Control Of Error
The color of the beads.

Points Of Interest
When child is familiar with threading, then we may do some counting activity with the child. Count as you thread. Make some pattern as you thread, playing with the colors, for e.g. alternating red and yellow beads. Say the names of the color of the beads as you thread.

Purpose
Direct aims: 


 * To develop a sense of pattern.
 * To prepare for counting.

Indirect aims: 


 * To develop the child's fine motor patter.
 * To develop the child's concentration.
 * To develop the child's independence.