Keeping Marks on the Paper
Here's What To Do
1
Tape a piece of paper to a larger piece of cardboard or a tray. Tape the entire edge of the paper so there's a clear border. (note: a large piece of paper may be helpful. Try taping two pieces right next to each other to make a large rectangle.)
2
Help me trace the tape border with my finger and talk about the edge of the paper.
3
Let me draw or paint. Remind me to keep my coloring or painting on the paper.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Set up a workspace in a calm environment free of distractions.
E
Engage:
- "Let's touch the edge of the paper. This is the edge. You want to keep your coloring inside the edge, here."
- "Paint whatever you'd like. What colors should you use?"
E
Encourage:
- "Uh oh! The paint went off the paper. Can you keep the brush on the paper?"
- Talk about what I'm doing, instead of the end result. Like: "I see you made a really long line with the blue crayon."
R
Reflect:
- Am I able to stay on the paper most of the time?
Not quite ready?
Let me paint or color on the inside of a shoebox lid or a large paper plate (something with a boundary).
Ready for more?
Without taping the paper down, ask me to keep my coloring or painting on the paper.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to stay on the paper when coloring or painting.