Felt Pocket Clip Drop
Purpose
This activity is designed to build essential finger strength. Squeezing the clothespin provides intense proprioceptive feedback. This "heavy work" strengthens the precise muscles needed for tasks like fastening buttons or holding a pencil. The need to grab the soft pom-pom requires good pincer control. Aiming the clipped item into the tight felt pocket improves precision and eye-hand coordination. Holding the container steady with the helper hand also encourages proximal stability.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Adult Prep: Use scissors to cut a piece of felt that covers the container opening. Cut 6 to 8 very tight, narrow vertical slits into the felt.
- Secure the felt tightly over the container opening using masking tape around the rim. The felt should be firm.
- Place the pom-poms in a bowl. Practice squeezing a clothespin open using a strong two-finger pinch.
- Challenge your child to pick up one pom-pom by securing it gently inside the open clothespin.
- Hold the container firmly steady with their non-dominant hand. This stabilizes the base.
- Aim the clothespin and pom-pom at a narrow felt slit. Use a strong, controlled push to insert the pom-pom completely into the pocket.
Safety Tip:
Constant and direct adult supervision is required. Pom-poms are small objects and pose a significant choking hazard for children under five. Ensure materials are used only as intended.
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