MV T3.12Threading Beads on a Stiff Lace
The child threads large wooden beads onto a short lace with a long stiff tip and a stopper at the other end.
Safety
- Each bead and the stopper must not fit the small parts test cylinder (1.25 in. wide × 2.25 in. deep); beads at least 3.5 cm (1.4 in.) in their smallest direction do not fit.
- Keep the lace no longer than about 30 cm (12 in.); a threaded lace is not worn around the neck or wrist by a child under 3.
- Use the lace only with an adult nearby and store it on the shelf after use, never in a crib, cot, or nap area.
Presentation
- 1
Carry the tray to the table and sit beside the child.
- 2
Pick up one bead with your non-dominant hand and hold it so you can see the hole.
- 3
Hold the lace near the stiff tip with your dominant hand.
- 4
Push the tip into the hole slowly. The tip coming out the other side is the point of interest.
- 5
Take hold of the tip on the other side, pull the lace through, and slide the bead down to the stopper.
- 6
Thread a second bead the same way, then invite the child to thread the rest.
- 7
When all the beads are on, slide them off one at a time into the bowl, and return the tray to the shelf.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- More beads on the same lace
- A softer lace with a shorter stiff tip
- Two colors of beads threaded in turn, after the adult shows one pattern
Control of error
The bead does not go on if the tip misses the hole; the stopper keeps beads from sliding off the end.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Pushes the tip through and pulls the lace from the other side without help
- Threads all the beads in one sitting
- Slides the beads off and returns them to the bowl
Guide note
The 3–6 work Threading Large Beads uses a longer lace and, later, smaller beads. Keep beads at 3.5 cm or larger in a room with children under 3, even for a child who threads well.