PL 7.06Nuts, Bolts, and a Screwdriver

1. 1

   Invite the child and carry the basket to a table.

2. 2

   Lay out the bolts from largest to smallest. Pick up the largest bolt.

3. 3

   Find the nut that fits. Hold the bolt in one hand and the nut in the other.

4. 4

   Set the nut on the end of the bolt and turn it to the right with your fingertips until it reaches the head. Watching the nut travel along the thread is the point of interest.

5. 5

   Turn it to the left to take it off. Do the next bolt.

6. 6

   On another day, show the screwdriver: fit the tip into the screw head, hold the handle in your palm, and push in while turning to the right.

7. 7

   Turn to the left to loosen the screw until it stands loose in its hole. Put loose screws in the dish.

8. 8

   Invite the child to try.

What catches the child’s eye

• The nut climbing the thread as it turns
• The screw sinking into the wood

Extensions, easiest to hardest

1. Use smaller nuts and bolts, or wing nuts
2. Build with a wooden construction set that joins with nuts and bolts
3. Tighten a loose screw on a classroom chair with an adult