Presentation

  1. 1

    Invite the child and carry the snap frame to a table.

  2. 2

    Start at the top snap. Hold the fabric on each side of the snap between thumb and index finger.

  3. 3

    Pull the two sides apart with a quick, short movement. Listen for the pop; the sound is the point of interest.

  4. 4

    Continue down the row. Open the flaps fully.

  5. 5

    Close the flaps. At the top snap, place the top half over the bottom half and press them together with your thumb and index finger until they click.

  6. 6

    Continue down the row. Invite the child to try.

  7. 7

    On another day, present the hook-and-eye frame: hold the eye flat, slide the hook down into it, and pull slightly to seat it.

Extensions, easiest to hardest

  1. Open and close snaps on a jacket laid on the table
  2. Fasten snaps on clothing while wearing it
  3. Fasten a hook and eye at the back of a doll's dress

Control of error

An unfastened snap does not click and the fabric gaps; an unhooked hook slides out when pulled.

Ready to move on when the child…

  • Opens and closes all snaps in order
  • Fastens all hooks and eyes without help
  • Fastens snaps on their own clothing

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