Putty Piston Push

Ages:: Preschoolers (3 to 5), School age (6+)
Play time:: 10 to 15 minutes
Setup:: 5 minutes
Where:: Table

Why it helps

Pushing a craft stick down into firm putty gives the hands and arms strong pressure feedback and builds the hand strength used for coloring and holding a pencil. Pinching each bead and pressing it in with the thumb works the fingertips, and digging the beads back out adds more pinching and pulling. Holding the container steady with the helper hand gives both hands a job.

Steps

Before play, press a large ball of therapy putty or stiff playdough flat into the bottom of the container, about as thick as your thumb.
Count out about 10 beads into a small pile next to the container, and set a few craft sticks beside them.
Ask your child to hold the container steady on the table with the helper hand.
Show your child how to pinch one bead and press it into the putty with the thumb until it sits just below the surface.
Next, your child sets the flat end of a craft stick on the bead and pushes straight down, like a piston, until the bead disappears.
Ask your child to pull the stick back out and plant the next bead in a new spot. Keep going until every bead is hidden.
To finish, invite your child to dig the beads back out with the fingertips and count them back into the pile.

Safety tip: Beads are a choking risk, so stay at the table, count them before and after play, and keep beads and putty away from mouths. Putty sticks to carpet and fabric, so play on a bare table.

Make it easier

Use soft playdough instead of putty so the sticks push in with less effort.
Use the biggest beads you have, which are easier to pinch, press in, and find again.
Hold the container for your child so they can use both hands on the stick.

Make it harder

Use firmer putty and push each bead all the way down to the bottom of the container.
Plant the beads in a shape, like a circle or a straight line, using one bead color per shape.
Pull the sticks back out using only the thumb and pointer finger.

What to watch for

Notice whether your child pushes from the shoulder with a straight arm or mostly bends at the wrist.
Watch how the fingers hold the bead. A pinch with the tips of the thumb and pointer finger gives the most control.
If the putty feels too sticky or smells strong to your child, swap in playdough or a ball of modeling clay.

Where this helps in daily life

Pushing with steady force while the other hand holds things still is the same teamwork kids use to snap a jacket closed, press a lid onto a food container, and push a peg into a pegboard.

These activities are for home practice and don't replace the guidance of a licensed therapist.