The Sunshines explored many different dreidels today. They were big and small, wooden and plastic, traditional shapes and space-aged discs. Some play a tune as they spin. While busy at this play, the children shared in a delightful Chanukah activity, while also practicing fine motor skills. A successful spin requires the child to grasp the dreidel, usually with the thumb and index finger, and "snap" the fingers with enough force and speed to set the dreidel in motion. Not an easy maneuver for a three year old. The children, including Eli and Ali, pictured here, showed persistence in practicing and patience in waiting their turn for the various dreidels. We celebrated our efforts as well as our successful spins, and we enjoyed the comraderie of trying something new together.
This is a helpful description of the skills needed to spin a dreidel. You never really think about how complex it is until you see a young child trying to do it. It is amazing how motivated and determined they are to try. And I LOVE those flat ones. The kids seem to be able to spin those with easy plus they are fun to watch go round.
ReplyDeleteEli LOVES spinning dreidels. He has had the most success using the small wooden ones although spinning his entire body as a dreidel works just as well as is even more fun!
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