Crumple Pin Bowling
Purpose
This fun game helps strengthen the small muscles in the hands by crumpling the paper rolls into stiff pins, and it practices aim, motor planning, and grading force (proprioception) during the rolling action.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Build the ‘Crumple Pins’: Give the child 6 to 10 paper rolls (like toilet paper or paper towel rolls). Encourage them to use both hands to crumple each roll tightly into a dense, firm ‘pin’ shape. Secure each crumpled shape firmly with small pieces of masking tape to ensure they hold their structure.
- Set up the Lane: Use masking tape to mark a ‘foul line’ on the floor. Arrange the crumpled pins in a triangle formation 5 to 10 feet away from the line (adjust distance based on space and skill level).
- Bowl: Challenge the child to stand behind the line and roll the ball toward the pins, focusing on aiming and grading the force of their roll to knock down as many pins as possible.
- Score and Reset: Count how many pins were knocked down. Encourage the child to reset the pins (sequencing and motor planning) before taking their next turn.
Safety Tip:
Ensure the bowling area is clear of furniture, toys, and other trip hazards. Encourage children to reset the pins safely without rushing or running.
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