Mix-and-Match Monster Cutting Activity
Published 30 October 2026 · Updated 30 October 2026
A free printable where children build their own monster. They pick a pair of eyes, a nose and a mouth, cut each piece out and glue it on. Great for practising scissor skills, fine motor control and making choices.
What's included
- Monster body to decorate (page 1)
- 4 pairs of eyes to choose from (page 2)
- 6 noses in different shapes and colours (page 3)
- 4 mouths, from toothy grins to a simple smile (page 4)
- A4, print at actual size
Turn scissor practice into a game. Children choose a face for their monster from a set of eyes, noses and mouths, cut out the pieces and stick them on. Every monster turns out different, so it works well to come back to.
How to use it
- Print all four pages on A4 at actual size. Thicker paper or card is easier to cut.
- Cut out the monster body on page 1, or leave it on the sheet as a base.
- Let the child pick one pair of eyes, one nose and one mouth.
- Cut around the outside edge of each piece and glue it onto the monster.
Skills it builds
- Scissor control on curves, corners and straight lines
- Bilateral coordination: one hand cuts while the other turns the paper
- Hand strength and grasp
- Making choices and describing features (big, round, spiky, happy)
Adults should supervise all cutting. Use a glue stick only.
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Common questions
What age is this for?
Most children aged about 3 to 7 who are learning to use scissors. Younger children can tear the pieces out or glue on pieces an adult has cut.
What do I need?
A printer, A4 paper or card, child safety scissors and a glue stick.
Can I use it in therapy sessions?
Yes. It suits fine motor and scissor skills goals, and the choosing part gives you natural chances to work on language and turn-taking.
How do I make the cutting easier or harder?
For easier cutting, draw thick lines around each piece or pre-cut it into squares. For harder cutting, ask the child to follow the outline exactly.
This resource is general information for your own practice, not legal, clinical or regulatory advice. It doesn't replace your own professional judgement or your obligations under the HCPC standards of proficiency.
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