Extra Circle For Tracing
An extra circle for tracing, sold on its own. Of all the inset shapes the circle is the demanding one: there is no corner to stop at, so the pencil has to keep moving at an even speed the whole way round, and any hesitation shows as a flat spot in a line that should have none. A second circle means two children can work at once, or that a worn one can retire. The inset frames and the rest of the shapes are separate items.
“The hands are the instruments of man's intelligence.”
The Extra Circle for Tracing serves a precise developmental purpose in addressing the young child's need to refine hand movements before writing.
- Develops controlled circular hand movements essential for letter formation
- Strengthens pencil grip through repetitive tracing practice
- Builds visual-motor integration by coordinating eye and hand movements
- Establishes muscle memory for smooth, continuous curved strokes
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This acrylic oval template isolates the circular motion, one of the foundational movements required for letter formation. Between ages 3-6, children experience a sensitive period for refining motor control, and the transparent surface of this tracing guide allows them to observe their hand's path while maintaining focus on the movement itself. The smooth acrylic edge provides consistent tactile feedback as the child traces, building the muscle memory essential for fluid writing motions. Unlike freehand circle drawing, this structured oval template offers the exact amount of guidance needed - enough support to ensure success, yet requiring active hand control. The durable acrylic construction withstands thousands of repetitions, recognizing that mastery comes through repeated practice when the child is internally motivated to perfect this fundamental movement.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Place the acrylic template on a piece of paper at the child's workspace. Provide a selection of colored pencils or crayons in a small container.
- 1
Demonstrate holding the template steady with the non-dominant hand while tracing slowly around the inner edge with a pencil
Move deliberately, emphasizing the continuous nature of the circular motion - 2
Invite the child to trace around the oval, starting at the top center
Watch for proper pencil grip - intervene gently only if the grip significantly impedes movement - 3
After several traces, lift the template to reveal the overlapping ovals on the paper
This visual feedback helps children understand their progress - 4
Encourage multiple tracings with different colors to create patterns
Color variation maintains interest while providing necessary repetition
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
Brands used by
schools worldwide
European brands
AMI
Endorsed
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