Toddler Leaf Lacing
Post by Contributing Writer Amy
This fun fall project for toddlers not only helps them work on fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, it also doubles as a fun suncatcher when it’s finished! My toddler (age 2.5) really liked doing this simplified version of the Leaf Laced Suncatcher (Link) her big sisters did. If you have a toddler and older siblings, these projects go together well!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Laminator & lamination pouches
- Leaves
- Scissors
- Hole punch
- Yarn
- Masking tape
Go exploring with your toddler and let them collect leaves. Choose leaves that are flat to laminate, since curled up and crispy leaves won’t work
Place your leaf (or leaves) in the laminating sleeve, leaving plenty of room around it for cutting it out and hole punching. I could only do one or two leaves per pouch.
Send the leaves through the laminator! The kids loved watching it and feeling the toasty warm sheet that comes out the other side.
Cut out the approximate shape of the leaf, leaving about 3/4 of an inch all around for hole punching.
Hole punch all around the leaf.
Wrap the tip of the yarn with masking tape to make it easier for little fingers to get through the holes.
Starting at the top of the leaf, show your toddler how to lace the yarn through each hole. We went down through each hold and she caught on pretty quickly. She loved having my full attention while she laced!
Make a loop at the top when it’s done. She was impressed with herself. :)
Let your tot give it to a loved one or hang it in to the window to enjoy! Fine motor skill work that results in a beautiful fall craft and a proud toddler? You’re welcome! :)
Amy is a former reading and third grade teacher as well as a mother to three little girls with big personalities. She believes joy can always be found in playing, learning, and ice cream.
Amy is a former reading and third grade teacher as well as a mother to three little girls with big personalities. She believes joy can always be found in playing, learning, and ice cream.
