Down below the clouds

Slip the bow under the strings without touching them, then pull it out from the other side, with the cello-hand. This is another exercise for concentration.

For those who stretch their index finger too much: the pencil

A pencil is put between the index and middle fingers. It should also touch the thumb – if it does not, it means that the thumb is not bent enough and is stiff.
The index finger stretching out too far is a very common problem, like the wrist that pushes too much, but if the teacher and child are very patient, it stops around Book 3 or 4.

For those who do not move their forearms

Hold the elbow with the cello hand, by either the shirt or jersey. Hold the elbow and, if this does not work, the arm.
This is a good method, better than using the electric or half moon chairs or, if the parent has got time, he or she can hold the child’s arm.

For those who draw the bow too fast: the bow in prison

The child is asked to play with the bow the wrong way round and to grip it halfway up. He should practise this way at length, trying to get the same phrasing and dynamics as if he was using the whole bow. I have found this exercise to be extremely useful.