Use of Tongs

Age
3-6

Materials

 * Two identical plates.
 * Pebbles.
 * Thongs

Preparation
This is an individual presentation.

Presentation

 * 1) Directress shows the child how to carry the materials on a tray to the table and shows the child how to use the thongs.
 * 2) Place the top of the thongs at the palm of the hand, holding the two flexible ends in between the thumb and the index finger.
 * 3) Press the two fingers together, bringing the two ends together till it touches at the tip and then releasing it.
 * 4) Start by transferring the pebbles from left to right.
 * 5) Pick up the pebbles with the thongs by pressing the ends together with the pebble in the middle.
 * 6) Transfer it to the plate by releasing the ends of the thongs, letting the fingers apart.
 * 7) Transfer all the pebbles to the other bowl and then repeat the exercise by transferring them back to the original plate.

Control Of Error
Spillage - visual and audible.

Points Of Interest
Remember to transfer object gracefully and quietly. If there is spillage, Directress shows the child how to pick up the pebbles and place it back into the plate.

Purpose
Direct aims: 


 * To teach the child how to use thongs.

Indirect aims: 


 * To develop the child's eye hand coordination.
 * To develop the child's motor skills.
 * To develop the child's independence.
 * To satisfy the child's need for order.
 * To build their muscles for pencil grip.

Variation
Vary the level of difficulty by using from smaller to larger tongs and changing the objects to be transferred.