Looking for the best lacing beads to help boost your child’s fine motor skills? I’ve found a great selection, including wooden sets with bright colors, diverse shapes, and safe, non-toxic materials. These toys promote hand-eye coordination, pattern recognition, and creativity, perfect for children ages 1-6. Whether for home or therapy, options like Melissa & Doug, Montessori-inspired sets, and large-hole beads are excellent choices. Keep exploring to discover which set suits your child’s needs best.
Key Takeaways
- Look for sets with large, easy-to-handle beads and wide holes to facilitate threading for young children.
- Prioritize non-toxic, BPA-free materials with smooth, rounded edges for safety during play.
- Choose beads with diverse shapes and bright colors to enhance visual interest and pattern recognition.
- Consider durability features like reinforced cords and quality manufacturing to ensure long-lasting use.
- Opt for sets that include storage options for organization and portability, making play accessible anywhere.
Wooden Lacing Beads & Strings 125 Pieces for Toddlers
If you’re looking for a versatile and engaging way to help your child develop fine motor skills, the Wooden Lacing Beads & Strings set is an excellent choice. It includes 120 colorful, non-toxic wooden beads in six hues and five shapes, along with four 36-inch plastic-tipped laces and a storage container. The large bead holes make stringing easy, ideal for kids aged 3 and up. This set encourages shape and color recognition, pattern creation, and coordination. Perfect for home or travel, it promotes creativity and concentration while supporting early development. Plus, its durable design guarantees safe, long-lasting fun for your child.
Best For: parents, teachers, and caregivers seeking a safe, educational, and fun activity to enhance fine motor skills, color and shape recognition, and creativity in children aged 3 and above.
Pros:
- Encourages development of fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and creativity
- Durable, non-toxic materials ensure safe play and long-lasting use
- Versatile for various activities like pattern making, necklace crafting, and imaginative play
Cons:
- Small bead holes may contain leftover fragments requiring cleaning for smoother stringing
- Some cords may need modification, such as extending rigid tips for easier threading
- Bead size and packaging might pose minor issues, and some beads or cords could be tight or difficult for very young children to manage
Wooden Lacing Beads & Strings for Toddlers
Wooden lacing beads and strings are an excellent choice for parents and educators seeking to develop toddlers’ fine motor skills. This set includes 120 vibrant, non-toxic wooden beads in six colors and five shapes, along with four 36-inch plastic-tipped laces and a storage container. The large holes make threading easy, promoting eye-hand coordination, dexterity, and pattern recognition. Ideal for home or preschool use, the beads support creativity and concentration while aligning with Montessori-inspired activities. Crafted from safe materials, it’s suitable for children 3 and up, though supervision is recommended for younger kids due to small parts. This versatile set offers hours of engaging, skill-building fun.
Best For: parents and educators seeking a safe, engaging, and educational toy to develop toddlers’ fine motor skills, creativity, and pattern recognition.
Pros:
- Vibrant colors and various shapes stimulate visual and cognitive development
- Large beads with wide holes make threading easy for small hands
- Promotes skills such as eye-hand coordination, dexterity, and concentration
Cons:
- Some beads may have leftover drilling or painting fragments requiring cleaning
- Tight cord tips may need modification for easier threading
- Small parts pose choking hazards, requiring supervision for younger children
BMTOYS Lacing Beads for Kids
BMTOYS Lacing Beads for Kids stands out as an excellent choice for parents and educators seeking a versatile toy that promotes both learning and development. With 70 colorful, large beads, this set supports activities like counting, color and shape recognition, and pattern creation. Designed as Montessori-inspired toys, they foster sensory development, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive skills. Ideal for children aged 3 and up, these beads are also used in occupational therapy to improve fine motor skills and manipulative abilities. Made from non-toxic plastic, the beads are durable and safe, with a handy storage bag for organization. It’s a popular, engaging tool for growing little minds.
Best For: parents, teachers, and occupational therapists seeking a safe, educational, and versatile toy to enhance fine motor skills, cognitive development, and sensory awareness in children aged 3 and above.
Pros:
- Encourages learning through color recognition, shape sorting, and pattern building
- Promotes fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive development
- Durable, non-toxic plastic construction with a convenient storage bag for organization
Cons:
- Small beads pose a choking hazard; supervision required during play
- Thin laces may be less sturdy; sturdier shoelaces might be preferred for easier threading
- Slightly uneven distribution of shapes and colors could impact balanced play experiences
Melissa & Doug Primary Lacing Beads – Educational Toy with 8 Wooden Beads and 2 Laces
The Melissa & Doug Primary Lacing Beads set is perfect for young children aged 3 to 5 who are just beginning to develop fine motor skills. I love how the set includes 30 brightly colored wooden beads in various shapes, making it engaging and easy for little hands to grasp. The two colorful laces and sturdy wooden storage case add convenience and encourage repeated play. This toy helps kids improve hand-eye coordination, cognitive skills, and visual perception through hands-on threading activities. Known for quality, Melissa & Doug’s toys are trusted by parents and educators alike, making this set a fantastic, educational gift.
Best For: young children aged 3 to 5 years old who are beginning to develop fine motor skills and enjoy hands-on, educational play.
Pros:
- Brightly colored wooden beads in various shapes make it engaging and easy for small hands to grasp
- Includes 2 colorful laces and a sturdy storage case for convenience and repeated play
- Promotes development of fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, cognitive abilities, and visual perception
Cons:
- Limited to basic threading activities, which may not challenge older or more advanced children
- Some beads may be small enough to pose a choking hazard if not supervised
- May require additional activities or sets to keep older children fully engaged
BMTOYS Montessori Threading Toys with Farm Animals and Fruits for Toddlers
If you’re looking for an engaging, educational toy that helps toddlers develop fine motor skills, the Montessori Threading Toys with Farm Animals and Fruits are an excellent choice. This set includes colorful wooden beads featuring animals, fruits, vegetables, and cars, all designed for little hands. The strings have easy-grip wooden sticks and tips for simple threading, promoting hand-eye coordination and concentration. Made from BPA-free, smooth wood, the toys are safe and durable, perfect for home or travel. Plus, the portable bag makes cleanup easy. It’s a versatile tool that encourages learning, creativity, and fine motor development in young children.
Best For: parents, teachers, and therapists seeking a safe, engaging, and educational threading toy set to enhance fine motor skills, object recognition, and early learning for children aged 3-5 years.
Pros:
- Promotes fine motor development, hand-eye coordination, and concentration through threading activities.
- Made from BPA-free, smooth, durable wood ensuring safety and long-lasting use.
- Includes a variety of colorful beads with animals, fruits, vegetables, and cars, fostering creativity and educational learning.
Cons:
- Some users mentioned minor issues with letter orientation on beads.
- The set may be less suitable for children under 3 years due to small parts.
- Limited to threading activities, which might require supplementary toys for broader play options.
Wesiti Alphabet Learning Toys with Lacing Letters for Toddlers
Wesiti Alphabet Learning Toys with Lacing Letters are perfect for toddlers who are just beginning to explore letter recognition and fine motor skills. This set includes 408 lacing letter beads—384 uppercase and lowercase letters—and 24 ropes, all stored in two convenient buckets for easy organization. Made from durable, fade-resistant PP plastic, these toys are safe and built to last. They help children improve letter recognition, shape and color identification, and problem-solving skills while promoting hand-eye coordination. Ideal for children aged 3 and up, these toys support independent and group learning, making them a valuable educational tool and gift for early learners.
Best For: young children aged 3 and above who are beginning to develop their letter recognition, fine motor skills, and early learning abilities.
Pros:
- Encourages letter recognition, shape, and color identification, supporting foundational literacy skills.
- Durable, fade-resistant plastic ensures long-lasting use and safety for children.
- Promotes fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving through engaging threading activities.
Cons:
- The set may be too large for very young children under age 3 due to small bead size.
- Requires adult supervision to prevent choking hazards with small beads.
- Limited to early learning activities; may need additional educational tools for advanced skills.
Plastic Lacing Beads for Kids (70 Pcs)
Plastic Lacing Beads for Kids (70 Pcs) are an excellent choice for parents and educators seeking a versatile tool to develop fine motor skills. I love how these beads come in fun shapes and bright colors, making learning engaging. With 13 assorted shapes and 8 vibrant colors, kids can explore patterns, colors, and basic math concepts while threading. The lightweight design makes them perfect for travel and outdoor activities, and the included storage bag keeps everything organized. Suitable for children aged 3 and up, these Montessori-inspired beads promote hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and creative play—ideal for early learning, therapy, or just fun family time.
Best For: parents, educators, and therapists seeking a versatile, engaging toy to enhance fine motor skills, early learning, and creative play for children aged 1-6.
Pros:
- Bright colors and diverse shapes stimulate visual interest and learning engagement
- Lightweight and portable, perfect for travel and outdoor activities
- Supports developmental skills such as hand-eye coordination, pattern recognition, and spatial awareness
Cons:
- Small parts may pose a choking hazard for children under 3 without supervision
- Limited to threading and sorting activities, which may require additional toys for varied play
- Some children might find the shapes repetitive after extended use
Toddler Toys Big Lacing Beads Set for Fine Motor Skills
The Toddler Toys Big Lacing Beads Set is an excellent choice for young children aged 3 to 4 who are developing their fine motor skills. This set includes 36 large, durable beads and 6 strings, making it perfect for small hands. Its design promotes hand-eye coordination, color recognition, shape matching, and counting through engaging activities. The beads are easy to sanitize and portable, ideal for on-the-go play or classroom use. Supporting Montessori-style learning, this set encourages creativity and cognitive development while helping children build essential fine motor skills. It’s a versatile, educational toy that makes learning fun and interactive.
Best For: young children aged 3 to 4 who are developing fine motor skills, early counting, and color recognition.
Pros:
- Promotes fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive development through engaging activities.
- Durable, easy to sanitize, and portable, making it suitable for travel and classroom use.
- Supports Montessori-style learning and encourages creativity, matching, and sorting skills.
Cons:
- May be too large for children under 3, posing a choking hazard for younger toddlers.
- Limited to basic shapes and colors, which might require additional toys for more advanced learning.
- Some children might find the set less challenging as they grow older or more skilled.
Montessori Wooden Lacing Beads Toys for Toddlers
Are you searching for a safe and engaging way to help toddlers develop their fine motor skills? Montessori Wooden Lacing Beads Toys are perfect for children aged 3-5. This set includes 42 wooden beads shaped like farm animals, fruits, and vegetables, along with four laces and a portable drawstring bag. Kids can create necklaces, bracelets, and patterns, boosting hand-eye coordination, sensory perception, and creativity. Made from natural wood with non-toxic paint, the beads are smooth and safe. These toys are ideal for play, learning, and promoting confidence, making them a valuable addition to any preschool or home activity.
Best For: parents, teachers, and caregivers seeking a safe, educational toy to enhance toddlers’ fine motor skills and creativity.
Pros:
- Made from natural, non-toxic wood with smooth, rounded edges for safety.
- Includes a variety of colorful beads representing animals, fruits, and vegetables to encourage pattern recognition and sorting.
- Portable with a drawstring bag, perfect for travel and outdoor activities.
Cons:
- Limited to children aged 3-5, not suitable for younger toddlers.
- May require adult supervision for initial guidance on lacing activities.
- Colors and paint may fade over extended use if not stored properly.
Montessori Wooden Beads Sequencing Toy Set for Kids
For parents and educators seeking a durable and engaging way to develop fine motor skills, the Montessori Wooden Beads Sequencing Toy Set stands out as an excellent choice. This set includes 25 colorful wooden beads in various shapes and colors, a sturdy wooden stand, two laces with wooden sticks, and eight double-sided pattern cards. Kids can match patterns, thread beads, or create new designs, enhancing their problem-solving and sequencing skills. Made from non-toxic, lightweight wood, it’s safe for small hands and encourages visual recognition, hand-eye coordination, and creativity. Its versatility makes it ideal for preschool learning and therapeutic activities, fostering early developmental milestones in a fun way.
Best For: Parents, teachers, and therapists looking to enhance fine motor, cognitive, and early learning skills in children aged 2-10 through engaging, hands-on activities.
Pros:
- Promotes development of problem-solving, sequencing, and visual motor skills through versatile play options.
- Made from non-toxic, durable wood with bright colors, ensuring safety and long-lasting use.
- Suitable for a range of activities, including pattern matching, threading, and creative pattern design, making it highly versatile.
Cons:
- Some users report small bead sizes that may pose a choking hazard for very young children without supervision.
- Variability in quality and size of parts, with occasional issues like cracked beads or weak points.
- Concerns about the use of potentially toxic paint from manufacturing in China, requiring careful supervision.
Shappy Montessori Wooden Lacing Beads Toy for Kids 1-6
If you’re seeking a safe and engaging way to help children develop fine motor skills, the Shappy Montessori Wooden Lacing Beads Toy is an excellent choice. It includes 139 brightly colored wooden beads featuring themes like letters, numbers, animals, and shapes, all designed for kids aged 1-6. Made from high-quality, non-toxic wood with smooth surfaces, these beads are safe and easy to handle. The large holes make threading simple, helping improve hand-eye coordination, concentration, and problem-solving. Whether for educational activities or play, this set makes a fantastic gift and supports early learning while encouraging fine motor development in young children.
Best For: parents, educators, and caregivers seeking a safe, engaging, and educational toy to promote fine motor skills and early learning in children aged 1-6.
Pros:
- Made from high-quality, non-toxic, natural wood with smooth surfaces for safe handling.
- Features bright colors and diverse themes like letters, numbers, animals, and shapes to stimulate visual perception and cognitive development.
- Large holes and durable ropes make threading easy, enhancing hand-eye coordination and concentration.
Cons:
- Suitable primarily for children aged 1-6; may not be challenging enough for older kids.
- The set weighs approximately 2.12 pounds, which might be cumbersome for very young children to carry around.
- Limited to the themes included; children interested in more varied or advanced patterns might seek additional activities.
Montessori Toys for 2-4 Year Olds
https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71QidugAxcL._AC_SX679_.jpg
Montessori toys designed for 2-4-year-olds stand out because they combine engaging, hands-on activities with developmental benefits that support early learning. I find that these toys, like the wooden shape matching game and lacing beads set, promote fine motor skills, cognition, and hand-eye coordination. They include colorful beads, pattern cards, and threading tools that encourage children to match, sort, and sequence. These activities help children develop concentration, problem-solving, and recognition skills in a fun, safe way. Made from durable, non-toxic wood, these toys are perfect for preschoolers, fostering early development while aligning with Montessori principles.
Best For: preschool children aged 2-4 who are developing fine motor skills, cognitive abilities, and hand-eye coordination through engaging, hands-on learning activities.
Pros:
- Promotes fine motor skills, recognition, and sequencing abilities through sorting and matching activities
- Made from durable, non-toxic wood ensuring safety and longevity
- Supports Montessori principles by encouraging independent, hands-on learning and problem-solving
Cons:
- May require adult supervision for younger children to prevent choking hazards with small beads
- Limited to activities involving shape matching and threading, which might not appeal to all children
- Storage and organization might be needed for the pattern cards and beads to prevent clutter
Montessori Lacing Bead Sequencing Toy
The Montessori Lacing Bead Sequencing Toy stands out as an excellent choice for parents and educators seeking a versatile, educational tool that promotes fine motor skills in young children. Made from non-toxic, durable wood, it features smooth, well-shaped pieces safe for little hands. The set includes colorful beads, a stand, laces with wooden sticks, and pattern cards, allowing for activities like threading, stacking, and shape recognition. This toy not only enhances hand-eye coordination and dexterity but also encourages pattern matching, counting, and color identification. Its open-ended design fosters creative play while supporting early developmental milestones in a safe, engaging way.
Best For: parents, teachers, and caregivers seeking a safe, versatile educational toy to develop fine motor skills, pattern recognition, and early STEM learning in children aged 2-5.
Pros:
- Made from non-toxic, durable, and lightweight natural wood for safety and longevity
- Includes a variety of activities such as threading, stacking, and pattern matching to promote cognitive development
- Well-crafted with smooth edges, vibrant colors, and no assembly required, making it easy and safe for young children
Cons:
- Supervision recommended for children prone to mouthing small parts despite safety measures
- Limited to children within the age range of 2-5, less suitable for older children
- May require additional space for larger pattern cards or multiple play activities
Shappy Lacing Beads for Toddlers (324 Pcs)
https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81wXRmhmzEL._AC_SX679_.jpg
Shappy Lacing Beads for Toddlers (324 Pcs) stands out as an excellent choice for young children aged 6 and up who are just beginning to develop their fine motor skills. This set includes 324 colorful wooden beads in six vibrant hues and six different shapes, making it engaging and educational. The large beads with sizable holes are easy for small hands to grasp and thread, promoting hand-eye coordination, shape, and color recognition. Made from durable wood, these beads are safe for repeated use, encouraging creativity through making necklaces and patterns. It’s a versatile set perfect for both learning and play, with positive reviews highlighting its quality and value.
Best For: young children aged 6 and up who are developing fine motor skills, shape and color recognition, and enjoy creative, educational play with colorful beads.
Pros:
- Bright, vibrant colors and a variety of shapes enhance visual engagement and learning.
- Large beads with sizable holes make threading easier for small hands, promoting dexterity.
- Durable wooden construction supports repeated use and safe play, encouraging creativity and skill development.
Cons:
- The string may benefit from more rigid ends to facilitate easier threading, especially for younger children.
- Small beads pose a choking hazard if not used under adult supervision.
- Some users may find the set’s packaging or storage options less convenient for organization.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Lacing Beads Fine Motor
When selecting lacing beads, I consider the child’s age to guarantee they’re safe and engaging. I also look at the materials to verify they’re non-toxic and sturdy, and I pay attention to bead size and hole design for easy threading. Finally, I choose sets with a variety of colors and shapes that can withstand regular use without falling apart.
Age Appropriateness
Choosing age-appropriate lacing beads is essential to guarantee both safety and developmental benefits. For children aged 1-3 years, I recommend large, chunky beads with easy-to-grasp holes, which support their emerging fine motor skills and reduce choking risks. For kids aged 3-5 years, selecting beads with smaller holes and greater variety in shapes and colors challenges their dexterity and encourages creativity. Always check the recommended age range on the packaging to ensure the beads match the child’s developmental stage. Simpler designs are suitable for younger children, while more intricate patterns suit older preschoolers. Matching the bead complexity to their age helps promote safe play and ideal skill development, making the experience both fun and beneficial.
Material Safety
Ensuring the material safety of lacing beads is crucial for both your child’s health and their play experience. I always check that beads are made from non-toxic, BPA-free, and child-safe materials to prevent any health hazards. Smooth, rounded edges are essential to avoid cuts or injuries during play, so I look for beads with no sharp points or splinters. Durability matters too—high-quality wood or plastic that can withstand repeated use without breaking is a must. I also verify that the paint or dye used is non-toxic, lead-free, and certified safe for children. Ultimately, I ensure there are no small parts that could pose choking hazards, and that the beads are sturdy enough to prevent breakage into tiny, swallowable pieces.
Bead Size & Holes
The size of the beads and the width of their holes play a significant role in making lacing activities both safe and enjoyable. Larger beads with bigger holes are ideal for young children, reducing choking risks and making threading easier. The holes should be wide enough to fit various stringing materials, including thicker cords and laces, to encourage creative play. Small or narrow holes can cause frustration, as threading becomes difficult and may damage the beads or hurt little fingers. Uniformly drilled holes ensure smooth threading and minimize the risk of splinters or sharp edges. Overall, selecting beads with the right size and hole diameter enhances safety, usability, and developmental benefits, making lacing activities more engaging and effective for kids.
Color & Shape Variety
A wide variety of colors and shapes in lacing beads can considerably boost a child’s learning experience. Bright colors help children differentiate hues and develop color recognition skills, making learning both fun and engaging. Including different shapes, like spheres, cylinders, and oblate forms, supports early geometric understanding and shape recognition. When beads come in multiple colors and shapes, children can create patterns and sequences, which promotes cognitive development and pattern recognition. These variations also lend themselves well to sorting and matching activities that strengthen fine motor skills and visual discrimination. Plus, a diverse selection keeps children interested longer, encouraging sustained engagement with their learning activities. Overall, choosing sets with a rich variety of colors and shapes can make all the difference in a child’s developmental journey.
Durability & Quality
Choosing durable and high-quality lacing beads is essential because kids will handle them frequently and enthusiastically. I look for beads made from sturdy, non-toxic materials like natural wood or tough plastic, ensuring they can withstand energetic play. Smooth surfaces and rounded edges are a must—these prevent splinters and injuries as kids manipulate the beads. The string or cord’s strength also matters; thicker, reinforced options resist breaking or fraying over time. I pay attention to manufacturing standards, making sure bead holes are free of rough edges or leftover fragments that could cause cracks. Good-quality beads keep their vibrant colors and finish despite repeated use, cleaning, and exposure to the environment. This durability ensures the beads last longer and maintain their appeal and safety for kids.
Ease of Threading
When selecting lacing beads, considering how easily children can thread them makes a big difference in their learning experience. Beads with larger holes and smooth edges are ideal because they make threading simpler for young kids developing fine motor skills. Lightweight, non-toxic materials also help reduce hand fatigue and improve grip. Additionally, beads with consistent sizes and hole diameters allow for smoother, quicker threading, reducing frustration. Using laces with rigid or extended tips can guide the string through holes more easily, making the activity less frustrating and more engaging. Beads designed with clear, sizable holes are especially helpful for children with less dexterity or coordination challenges. All these factors contribute to a more successful and enjoyable threading experience, encouraging confidence and skill development.
Storage & Portability
To make the most of lacing beads during activities on the go, it’s important to prioritize storage and portability features. Compact containers or zippered bags make it easy to organize and carry beads without losing small pieces. Bead sets with matching storage cases help keep everything secure, preventing spills or misplacement during travel or storage. Lightweight sets are especially beneficial for young children, as they’re easier to manage and carry independently. Modular options, like stacking boxes or compartmentalized trays, allow quick access and keep different shapes and colors organized. Additionally, choosing bead sets with durable, spill-proof containers guarantees longevity and convenience, whether at home, preschool, or on the move. Good storage options make playtime seamless and mess-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Materials for Durable Lacing Beads?
You’re asking about the best materials for durable lacing beads. I recommend choosing beads made from wood, silicone, or BPA-free plastic. These materials are sturdy, safe for kids, and resistant to breaking or cracking. Wooden beads are especially durable and eco-friendly, while silicone offers flexibility and easy cleaning. Plastic beads are lightweight and come in vibrant colors, making them perfect for long-lasting, engaging lacing activities.
How Do Lacing Beads Support Cognitive Development Besides Motor Skills?
Much like a painter’s palette sparks creativity, lacing beads stimulate cognitive growth beyond motor skills. As kids choose colors, patterns, and sequences, they develop problem-solving, planning, and decision-making abilities. I’ve seen children recognize patterns and improve concentration through simple lacing activities. These beads turn play into a brain-boosting adventure, nurturing critical thinking and memory. It’s amazing how such small objects can unveil big cognitive potential in young minds.
Are There Safety Concerns With Small or Plastic Beads?
When it comes to small or plastic beads, safety is my top concern. I always supervise young children during play, guaranteeing they don’t put beads in their mouths to avoid choking hazards. I choose beads made from non-toxic, BPA-free materials and check for any loose or sharp edges. Being cautious helps me ensure that playtime remains fun and safe while kids develop their fine motor skills.
How Can Parents Encourage Creative Play With Lacing Beads?
When encouraging creative play with lacing beads, I suggest setting up themed activities, like creating jewelry for a pretend party. I once guided my niece to design a colorful necklace, which sparked her imagination and improved her fine motor skills. You can do the same by offering various beads and encouraging her to invent patterns or stories. This playful approach makes learning fun and fosters her creativity.
What Age Is Most Appropriate for Introducing Lacing Bead Activities?
When considering the right age to introduce lacing bead activities, I recommend starting around age 3. At this stage, children have developed enough hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills to grasp and thread beads comfortably. Introducing lacing beads too early might frustrate them, while waiting too long could delay skill development. I find that age 3 strikes the perfect balance for engaging and beneficial play.
Conclusion
I believe that giving kids the right lacing beads can truly boost their fine motor skills, and there’s some science behind it. When children practice threading and lacing, they strengthen hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity, which are essential for writing and other tasks. So, choosing engaging, durable beads isn’t just fun—it’s an investment in their development. Trust me, I’ve seen how the right toys can turn small hands into skilled, confident movers.
