FM.E.94 UNSCREWS ΤHREADED TOYS

Here is another activity requiring two-handed coordination.

How to Assess

Materials: A screwing toy with threaded pieces at least 6 cm in diameter at the head requiring 4 turns to remove. These can be obtained separately through toy shops or as part of a carpentry set or construction set.

Method: Demonstrate unscrewing the toy. Screw it back in, making 4 turns, and hand it to your child. Say ‘You unscrew now’.

Score plus if your child removes the threaded piece, holding the main body of the toy steady with one hand.

How to Teach

Look for large plastic nuts and bolts that are easy to operate.

Teach through demonstration, giving verbal and physical help where necessary. You may find it easier to help your child from behind.

Playtime and Round-the-house Activities

Look for screw-top jars and bottles that are slim enough for your child to hold in one hand. Old shampoo bottles may prove useful. If you teach this skill in the bath, your child can have the satisfaction of emptying out the contents of the bottle once the lid is off.

Remembering and Extending

Once your child has mastered unscrewing, you can teach him to screw things together too.