Learning About Soft and Rough with Velcro

I’m always looking for different ways to mix sensory play with learning.  Texture provides a great sensory input that improves memory, and this Velcro activity is one of our favorites because the materials reinforce the concept.  Both sides of a Velcro are perfect for kids to feel the difference between rough and smooth and therefore truly comprehend the associated Chinese characters.

Important vocabulary:

• 软 (ruǎn / soft)
• 柔软的 (róuruǎn de / soft)
• 粗 (cū / rough, coarse)
• 粗糙 (cūcāo / rough, coarse)

What you need:

Amazon affiliate links provided for convenience

1. Velcro dots
2. Scissors
3. Block character template (free download in simplified Chinese and traditional Chinese)
4. Pen

Please note that I used Velcro tape as shown in the photos.  While Velcro tape is more cost-effective, it was a big pain to cut and cause adhesive buildup on the scissor.  If you prefer to use Velcro tape, I recommend cleaning the scissor with an adhesive remover.

What to do:

1. Print out templates on color paper to give contrast to Velcro
2. Write 软 and 粗 on the template so child can see the normal appearance of the characters
3. Tape soft pieces on 软 template
4. Tape rough pieces on 粗 template
5. Feel the contrast of both characters.
6. For those who are learning how to write, you can add arrows to indicate 笔画 (bǐ huà / stroke order) and ask your child to use his or her finger to trace stroke in the correct order.

Here’s a video of my daughter tracing 软 following 笔画!

If you try this Velcro activity, let us know!  Leave a comment and don’t forget to tag a photo #ChalkAcademy on Instagram and Facebook. 

If your child likes sensory learning, I highly recommend the following Chinese activities:

• Writing with Cotton
• Pom Pom Color Matching activities
• Writing 棉球 with Pom Poms

Happy learning, friends!