Plaiting for kids is a hands-on Montessori activity that involves braiding strands of yarn, rope, or other materials to create a woven pattern. This activity helps young children develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and concentration by guiding them to cross strands over and under each other in a specific order.
Aims:
- Develop coordination of movements
- Enhance concentration
- Foster independence
- Master the skill of plaiting
Description:
The child has recently been introduced to the Montessori activity of plaiting, which involves braiding three strands of rope or yarn in different colors. One end of the strands is secured with a wooden block or sandbag to weigh them down. The strands are then separated, making them ready for braiding or weaving together. The materials used for plaiting are carefully selected to ensure safety and comfort for the child. The length of the strands and the weight of the block or sandbag are ideal for the child to handle easily.
The child was shown where the plaiting materials are stored and invited to bring them to a work mat. Once on the mat, the weight was rolled upwards so that the three strands were laid out with the weight positioned at the top end of the mat. The child was shown how to hold the strands using the thumb and index finger of their right hand (pincer grip), spreading the strands out—one to the left, one in the center, and one to the right. They were then guided through the process of braiding by crossing the right strand over the middle one, followed by crossing the left strand over the now middle one. This process continued until all the strands were braided, and the child’s attention was directed to the braid that was formed. The child was also taught how to undo the plait by holding the middle strand, moving it over the overlapping strand, and placing it parallel to the strand. This process was repeated with the other strands until the plait unraveled completely.
Once the child is comfortable plaiting with three different colored strands, they can move on to more advanced stages. These include plaiting with strands of the same color and using a ring or bangle suspended at the child's height, instead of a weight, to work with thinner strands.
Plaiting helps develop fine motor skills by encouraging precise movements to weave each strand over and under the others. It also fosters decision-making skills as the child decides which strand to move and in what order to create the desired pattern.
Suggested At-Home Activities:
You can support your child’s plaiting practice at home with the following activities:
- Create a simple plaiting board using cardboard (such as from an Amazon box) and attach three equal-length strands of yarn or wool. Encourage the child to practice plaiting with this homemade setup.
- For a more challenging task, tie a few strands of yarn or wool (in multiples of three) to a sturdy bangle. Hang the bangle at a height where the child can reach it and invite them to plait the strands.
- Once the child has enough practice, they can try plaiting their mother’s or sister’s hair, which provides an additional challenge and a sense of accomplishment.
