Tearing Paper
Let them wreck a newspaper. It is fantastic for their hands and they will love it.
- Ages
- 15 mo–3 yrs
- Play
- 5–20 min
- Prep
- 1 min
- Mess
- some
- Energy
- lively
- Where
- on the floor
You’ll need
Things you probably have at home.
- newspaper or old magazines
Optional
- a basket to fillGet it on Amazon
- glue, to make something afterwardsGet it on Amazon
- a bag to keep the pieces
How to play
Before you start: Put a sheet of newspaper in front of them and take one yourself.
Tear your sheet slowly and loudly, right in front of them.
Hand them a sheet. Starting the tear is the hard part — make a small nick in the edge for them.
Let them go. Tearing is a genuine two-handed coordination workout.
Throw a handful in the air together.
Sweep it all into a basket, which is its own game.
What it helps with
Keep it safe
- Paper goes in mouths at this age. Stay close, and stop the activity rather than looking away.
- Newspaper ink is not for eating; wash hands afterwards.
- No glossy magazine staples — check and remove them first.
Make it different next time
- Glue the pieces onto a sheet of card afterwards to make a collage.
- Tear into a big bowl and use it as a sensory bin for the rest of the week.
Cleanup: Gather it into a basket, then recycle. Expect to find pieces for days.
