Image by: Markus Grossalber

Plate Sewing!

Category
fine
Age Range
3-7 yrs
Setup Time
Under a minute!
Setup Location
Indoor

Learning to sew helps children become creative thinkers, according to findings from a clinical study completed by the not-for-profit Home Sewing Association (HSA) in the late-1990s.

Lacing and stringing activities help young children develop manual dexterity and manipulative skills. By using their hands, children more fully integrate learning experiences. Weaving, sewing, and other kinds of handwork extend the benefits of 'Practical Life' work for the older child. Children will continue to develop fine motor skills and concentration, while building self-confidence with successful experiences.

Sewing is great for developing problem-solving skills, strong motor skills, attention to detail, and enhances productivity. Sewing not only helps your child learn a new hobby that is fun and artistic, it teaches math, critical thinking and spatial awareness.

Above all else, this activity works on your child’s control and pincer grip that will be essential for writing skills!

Steps:

  1. Tie lengths of yarn to plastic yarn needles, and knot the end

  2. Your child can “sew” the yarn on a styrofoam plate by pushing the needle in and out through the plate

  3. Help your child trace a pattern (animal, house or favorite cartoon character or squares and triangles!) on the plate

  4. Your child can use yarn of various colors to sew along the traced pattern and make a colorful art piece!

Disclaimer: This presents an overview of child development. It is important to keep in mind that the time frames presented are averages and some children may achieve various developmental milestones earlier or later than the average but still be within the normal range of development. This information is presented to help parents understand, at a high level, what to expect from their child. Any questions/concerns you may have about your child’s development should be shared with your doctor.