Tight Stick Wedge Push
Purpose
This fun activity targets the small muscles in the hands that kids need for tasks like fastening buttons and controlling a pencil. Pushing the stick into the stiff Theraputty provides excellent heavy work input (proprioception). This strong resistance strengthens the intrinsic hand muscles. The narrow wedge opening demands controlled force and precision (distal finger control) to successfully insert the sticks. Using the helper hand to stabilize the container while the working hand pushes builds critical stability at the shoulder and elbow (proximal stability). This improves focus and endurance for seated fine motor tasks.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Fold an index card tightly in half lengthwise. This creates a stiff, narrow V-shaped wedge.
- Press a small lump of Theraputty or stiff playdough firmly down inside the V-wedge. The putty should be resistant.
- Place the loaded index card wedge flat inside the plastic container to keep it stable on the table.
- Ask your child to hold the container firmly steady with their non-dominant hand (the helper hand).
- Pick up one craft stick. Challenge your child to aim and push the stick straight down into the resistant putty through the narrow V-opening.
- Encourage strong, controlled pushes until the putty wedge is completely filled with sticks. Pull the sticks out for a reverse challenge.
Safety Tip:
Theraputty, playdough, and craft sticks are small objects. Constant and direct adult supervision is required throughout this activity to prevent choking hazards for children in this age group.
