Which fine-motor skill do children typically develop last?

Cutting shapes with scissors is considered a fine-motor skill that typically develops later than other skills, such as buttoning shirts, writing names, and drawing simple shapes. This is largely because using scissors requires a higher level of coordination, precision, and hand strength, which takes time for many children to develop.

When children initially learn to use scissors, they must manage the complex motions of opening and closing the blades while also manipulating the paper. It involves not just dexterity in their fingers but also an understanding of how to position materials and control the movement to achieve the desired cut. Consequently, this skill tends to arrive after other fine-motor skills that are less demanding, such as basic drawing or practicing writing their names.

By the time children are comfortable with more foundational tasks like drawing simple shapes and buttoning shirts, they may still be refining their hand-eye coordination and strength needed for precise cutting actions. Thus, cutting shapes with scissors marks a significant milestone in fine-motor skill development and typically takes more time for most children to master.