Cotton Ball Rescue Clip
Purpose
This activity strengthens the small muscles in the hands needed for holding crayons and scissors, while also improving eye-hand coordination as they carefully aim the cotton balls into the small compartments.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Set up the activity by placing the empty egg carton on one side of the table and the bowl of cotton balls on the other.
- Give the child one or two clothespins. Explain that the clothespin is a “rescue tool” used to pick up the cotton balls without using fingers.
- Encourage the child to squeeze the clothespin open, grasp one cotton ball, and carefully transfer it into a cup of the egg carton. Try to fill every cup!
Safety Tip:
Ensure the child maintains good posture while sitting at the table. If they get frustrated with the resistance of the clothespins, try using larger, easier-to-squeeze kitchen tongs first before transitioning back to the smaller clothespins.
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