This simple playdough-cutting activity is a fun, low-pressure way to introduce your child to using scissors.
Before children can cut paper, they need to build strength, coordination, and confidence—and playdough offers the perfect place to start.
🧠 Skills Developed
- Fine motor development
- Hand strength and control
- Bilateral coordination (using both hands together)
- Early scissor skills
🧺 Materials
- Playdough
- Child-safe scissors
- Tray or flat surface
✋ Setup & Play
- Place a ball of playdough on a tray or table.
- Give your child a pair of child-safe scissors.
- Invite them to cut the playdough into pieces.
- Allow them to explore freely—there is no right or wrong way to cut.
- Model how to open and close the scissors if needed.
🌿 Extension Ideas
- Roll playdough into “snakes” for easier cutting
- Create pretend “food” and cut it into pieces
- Use different colors of playdough
- Combine with cookie cutters for extra fun
💡 Tip for Success
Playdough is much easier to cut than paper, making it a great starting point for beginners.
If your child struggles, guide their hand gently and go slowly—this skill takes time to develop.
💛 Why We Love It
This activity removes the pressure of “cutting perfectly.”
Children can focus on the movement—opening and closing the scissors—while building strength and confidence.
It’s simple, engaging, and sets the foundation for more advanced cutting skills.