Leaf Rubbings

What you need

• a few dry leaves
• thin paper
• a chunky crayon with its paper wrapper peeled off

How to do it

1. Put a flat dry leaf under a sheet of thin paper.
2. Hold the paper still for them.
3. Show them how to rub the side of the crayon over it.
4. Let them rub until the leaf appears.

Why it matters

Rubbing takes steady pressure on the crayon, which builds strength in the small muscles of the hand.

What they're learning

Pressing

Firm, even rubbing builds hand strength.

Holding a crayon differently

On its side is a new way to grip.

A surprise

The leaf appears as they rub.

What to look for

Watch for them pressing harder when the leaf starts to appear.

A tip

Let them hold it however it sits in their hand; there's no need to fix their grip at this age. Stay with them, and put the crayons away afterwards.

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