Dressing Frames: Snaps
Materials: A Snap Frame: 12” x 12” (30 cm x 30 cm); with two flaps of fabric attached to the frame which fasten together with 5-6 snaps.
Purposes:
Functional Independence
Visual Motor Coordination
Fine Motor Control
Manual Dexterity
Age: 2 ½ - 3 ½
Preparation: None
Vocabulary:
Snap: to snap, to unsnap, stud,
and socket
Presentation:
Unsnapping
Invite one child for the lesson on snapping.
Show the child the materials, how to pick up and carry the frame, return it to the shelf and allow the child to bring it to a table.
Sit to the child’s right, orient the frame with the opening flap on the right, and explain what you will do.
With the left hand, hold down the left side of the fabric
With the right fingers pinching next to the top snap, separate the snap and fold the corner back to show the child
Slide fingers down to open the next, and fold the fabric back.
Continue for the rest.
After the last snap, briefly open the flaps and close them again.
Snapping
Explain what you will do.
Start at the top
Insert left hand under the flap by way of the center of the frame. Left fingers are always under the socket while the right fingers push on the stud.
Continue down the frame.
Invite the child and encourage repetition.
Fade and observe.
Points of Interest:
Holding of the fabric and unsnapping one at a time.
Having the left hand under the back of the fabric for support when snapping.
Following Exercises:
Encourage the child to practice on their own clothing or help a friend with their snaps.