Fence Post Push
- Play time:
- 5 to 10 minutes
- Setup:
- 5 minutes
- Where:
- Table
Why it helps
This simple building game helps your child use both hands together for a task. Stabilizing the cardboard while pushing the sticks strengthens their hand muscles and boosts fine motor control and precision.
Steps
- Adult Prep: Use the scissors to cut several narrow, short slots (about 1-inch long) across the surface of the cardboard. Keep the slots tight to add resistance.
- Set up the area by standing the cardboard vertically on a table. Place the craft sticks in the container next to the cardboard barrier.
- Show your child how to use their 'helper hand' to hold and stabilize the cardboard fence, keeping it perfectly steady.
- Using the working hand, pick up one craft stick at a time. Aim the stick at a slot and use a strong, controlled push to insert it through the cardboard.
- Encourage your child to continue inserting sticks until the entire cardboard is full of colorful fence posts. Try pushing sticks into slots placed at different heights.
Safety tip: Adult supervision is required during the preparation phase when using scissors. Ensure the child sits stably at the table while performing the pushing action.
Make it easier
- Lean the cardboard against a wall or a stack of books so your child does not have to hold it up.
- Cut the slots a little wider so the sticks slide in with less push.
- Mark each slot with a bright marker line so it is easy to find.
Make it harder
- Color the sticks and draw matching colors next to each slot so every stick has its own spot.
- Cut some slots up and down and some side to side, so the wrist has to turn for each one.
- Fill the slots in order from the far side to the near side, so the working hand reaches across the body.
What to watch for
- Notice whether the helper hand holds the top edge of the cardboard firmly, or whether the fence bends back when your child pushes.
- Watch how your child grips each stick, pinched near the end with the fingertips or held in a fist.
- If a stick gets stuck in a tight slot, show your child how to wiggle it side to side as it goes in.
Where this helps in daily life
Holding something steady with one hand while pushing with the other is how kids slide a card into an envelope, push a book onto a full shelf, and tuck a folder into a backpack.
Need personalized support?
While these activities are great for home practice, nothing replaces the guidance of a licensed therapist. If you are in Irvine, CA or the Orange County area and have concerns about your child's Bilateral Hand Use, we invite you to connect with us.
Contact Tumble N' Dots Therapy →These activities are for home practice and don't replace the guidance of a licensed therapist.
