A child listening to music and waving color ribbons may just be having fun, but his teacher knows that he is reinforcing motor skills and learning how to express his feelings physically. Ribbons can be used to teach simple concepts like "up/down" and can also help develop coordination, color recognition and listening skills. Although most dance ribbons are made with a dowel rod, a plastic ring is safer for very young children and easier for them to grasp. You can use ribbon sold on a roll in a store's craft department or plastic tape found in the hardware department next to the "caution" tape.
- Scissors
- Craft ribbon or plastic (non-sticky) tape
- Wood drapery ring (remove the clip) or plastic shower curtain ring
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Instructions
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1
Determine the length of the ribbon. A good length for a child is the distance from his knees to the tips of his fingers, as he reaches to the ceiling.
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2
Double the desired length, and use this measurement to cut each ribbon. For example, if the desired length is 36 inches, cut each ribbon 72 inches.
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3
Feed the ribbon strip through the ring, so that the ring is at the halfway point of the strip. Secure the ribbon to the ring, using a simple knot.
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4
Add more ribbons. Most movement ribbon rings contain three individual ribbons, which gives the effect of six streamers.