Spiral Twist Core Threading
Purpose
This fun craft challenges your child's hand dexterity and strength. Making the tight paper spirals requires focused in-hand manipulation, which strengthens the small muscles in the fingers. The main goal is practicing the 'screwing' motion (forearm pronation and supination). This rotational movement is crucial for everyday tasks like turning doorknobs, twisting open jar lids, and coordinating wrist movements for writing. Stabilizing the paper roll with the helper hand also builds core and shoulder stability, known as proximal stability.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Adult Step: Secure the paper roll horizontally onto the cardboard base using strong masking tape. This creates a stable ‘dowel’ for twisting.
- Use the markers to draw colorful stripes or dots onto several index cards. Cut the decorated cards into long, narrow strips (about 1/2 inch wide).
- Take one paper strip. Use your fingertips to curl and twist the strip tightly around itself to create a stiff, narrow spiral shape.
- Secure the end of the paper spiral with a small amount of glue to keep the resistant shape from unrolling. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to make a pile of colorful spirals.
- Hold the cardboard base firmly steady with your non-dominant hand. Pick up a paper spiral with your working hand.
- Aim the spiral at the paper roll. Use a continuous twisting motion (like screwing in a lightbulb) to thread the spiral onto the roll, pushing it along the core.
- Continue twisting and pushing the colorful spirals until the entire paper roll is covered in dense, textured art. Then, try unwinding them!
Safety Tip:
Constant adult supervision is required. Adults should manage the scissors for preparation. Ensure the child remains seated stably to focus on the fine motor movements and to prevent the board from tipping.
