Presentation

  1. 1

    Show the child how to carry the inset tray, paper, and pencils to a table.

  2. 2

    Choose a shape with straight sides for the first lesson (square or triangle). Place the frame on the paper on the tray.

  3. 3

    Choose a colored pencil and hold it with the three-finger grip.

  4. 4

    Hold the frame still with the other hand and slowly trace inside the frame all the way around.

  5. 5

    Lift the frame off to show the shape drawn on the paper.

  6. 6

    Place the inset (with the knob) exactly over the drawn shape.

  7. 7

    With a second color, trace around the outside of the inset.

  8. 8

    Lift the inset off to show the two outlines, then invite the child to try.

Extensions, easiest to hardest

  1. Tracing each of the ten shapes, frame then inset
  2. Using a curved shape (circle, ellipse) that requires a turning wrist
  3. Tracing with the non-preferred hand holding the frame firmly without shifting

Control of error

The metal frame and inset guide the pencil; a line that leaves the edge is visible on the paper.

Ready to move on when the child…

  • Traces a frame and inset without the frame slipping
  • Holds the pencil with a three-finger grip for the whole drawing
  • Carries and returns all materials independently

Guide note

Left-handed children: tilt the paper to the right, and have the child hold the frame with the right hand. Use shapes the child already knows from the Geometric Cabinet in Sensorial.

Try “pink tower”, “tummy”, “diaper”, “grace and courtesy”, or “October”.