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Lesson 6 - Threading Techniques

Fine Motor Foundations

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Reception

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Fine Motor Skills

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Big Question

How can we use our hands with precision to complete challenging tasks while moving?

Learning Objectives

Develop fine motor control through threading and manipulation tasks
Improve hand-eye coordination through precise movements
Practice spatial awareness whilst carrying objects with control

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved threading skills using various materials
Students will show greater control when picking up and carrying objects
Students will negotiate space successfully whilst focused on fine motor tasks

Equipment & Resources Required

Threading Laces

1 per pair (15)

Pre-tie large knots at one end of each lace

Alternative: Thick wool or string with tape-wrapped ends

Straws

200 pieces

Cut to uniform 6cm lengths, store in hoops

Alternative: Large pasta tubes, plastic tubes

Bolts

100 sets

Check holes are large enough for threading materials

Alternative: Large beads with holes, cotton reels

Yoga Blocks

80 blocks

Ensure blocks are clean and splinter-free

Alternative: Building blocks, wooden blocks

Tweezers

15 pairs

Child-sized with good grip surfaces

Alternative: Large plastic tweezers, tongs

Tag Belts

60 (2 per child)

Bright colours for visibility

Alternative: Coloured ribbons tucked into waistbands

Plastic Cones

Check for cracks or sharp edges

Alternative: Large serving spoons, ladles

Game Balls

Softer alternatives for safety

Alternative: Tennis balls, foam balls

Cones

Bright colours for clear visibility

Alternative: Markers, bean bags

Hoops

Position 20m from starting positions

Alternative: Buckets, containers

Key Vocabulary

Threading

Putting string or thread through holes in objects

Pincer grip

Using thumb and forefinger to pick up small objects

Control

Moving our hands and fingers exactly where we want them to go

Precision

Being very careful and exact with our movements

Negotiate space

Moving safely around others without bumping

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic pincer grip development
Simple object manipulation
Following basic movement instructions

Current Skills

Threading objects through holes
Controlled object manipulation
Bilateral coordination tasks

Next Steps

More complex threading patterns
Tool use for fine motor tasks
Independent fine motor challenges

Milestone Indicators

Consistent pincer grip use

Sustained attention during fine motor tasks

Smooth hand-to-hand transfer of objects

Key Teaching Points

Pincer grip development is crucial for later writing skills
Threading activities build bilateral coordination essential for academic tasks
Tool use develops hand strength and precision needed for classroom activities
Partner cooperation enhances social skills alongside motor development
Self-assessment builds metacognitive awareness of physical capabilities
Persistence through challenge develops resilience and growth mindset
Fine motor control directly impacts future academic success in writing and drawing

Common Misconceptions

Belief that fine motor skills develop automatically without practice - needs deliberate teaching
Thinking that speed is more important than precision - emphasise controlled, accurate movements
Assumption that all children develop fine motor skills at same rate - expect and support individual differences
Misconception that fine motor work is 'easy' - acknowledge the genuine effort required
Belief that threading is just 'play' - explain connection to academic readiness

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, movement breaks between fine motor tasks, clear success criteria

dyspraxia

Larger threading materials, hand-over-hand support, extra practice time with tools

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, quiet zones available, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use high-contrast threading materials, verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, tactile exploration of equipment

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, visual instruction cards, sign support for key vocabulary

physical disability

Adapted grips for tools, seated threading options, modified collection distances

Cross-Curricular Links

Science

Understanding forces needed for balance, cause and effect with tool use

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between activities providing individual support, positioned to see all students during tool use

Observation Focus

Watch for proper pincer grip, controlled threading movements, effective cooperation

Intervention Points

Support when fine motor tasks become frustrating, ensure safe tool handling, encourage persistence

Demonstration Notes

Show all fine motor techniques slowly and clearly, emphasise that even adults find these tasks challenging

Verbal Cues

•'Gentle pincer grip like a bird's beak!'
•'Slow and steady wins the threading race!'
•'Great teamwork - one collects, one threads!'
•'Take your time - precision is more important than speed!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor space minimum 30m x 20m for running games, clear surfaces for fine motor work

Surface Check

Non-slip surface for movement activities, clean flat surfaces for threading work

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all threading materials for sharp edges
•Ensure tweezers are child-appropriate size
•Verify all small parts are too large for choking hazard
•Check tag belts are securely attached

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Small parts choking hazard
•Sharp edges on threading materials
•Collision during tag games
•Hand fatigue from intensive fine motor work

Risk Mitigation

•All small parts supervised and age-appropriate
•Clear movement boundaries established
•Regular breaks during fine motor intensive activities
•Adult supervision of tool use

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all threading activities
•Monitor for signs of hand fatigue
•Watch for unsafe use of tools
•Ensure fair turn-taking and cooperation

Emergency Procedures

First aid for minor cuts, choking procedure for small parts, calm management of equipment disputes