Block Tower Tug
Purpose
This activity focuses on building strength and stability through playful resistance. By pulling a weighted block tower, your child gets important proprioceptive input. This sensory input helps them understand where their body is in space. Maintaining a tall kneeling position strengthens the core and shoulder muscles. Strong shoulders and a stable core are the foundation for good fine motor skills. Pulling the string hand-over-hand also develops bilateral coordination and grasp strength. These are necessary skills for daily tasks like buttoning and cutting paper.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Help your child build a tall tower using heavy blocks. Use Masking Tape to secure a piece of String or Yarn tightly to the bottom block.
- Place the finished tower about four feet away on a smooth, non-carpeted floor. Clear the path between the tower and your child.
- Ask your child to assume a tall kneeling position behind the string. This requires good core stability.
- Challenge your child to pull the tower toward them using the string. Encourage them to use both hands in an alternating, hand-over-hand motion.
- Remind them to use slow, steady, and strong pulls. They must grade their force so the tower does not tip over when it reaches them.
- Once the tower is rescued, rebuild it quickly. Try pulling the tower with only the non-dominant hand for a challenge.
Safety Tip:
Constant adult supervision is required. Ensure the playing area is clear of all trip hazards. Always supervise children when they are using string or yarn to prevent strangulation risks.
