Playdough Pothole Punch
Purpose
This activity provides deep pressure input to the hands. Pressing into firm playdough requires sustained muscle engagement. This heavy work helps develop intrinsic hand strength and control. These are the small muscles inside the hand crucial for precise movements like writing and buttoning. Holding the plate steady with one hand builds proximal stability in the shoulder and forearm. Aiming and punching the tee uses a strong pincer grasp. This is a fun way to prepare the hands for kindergarten tasks.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Firmly press a large lump of playdough onto the back of a paper plate.
- The plate should be upside down and the playdough acts as a resistant base.
- Pick up one golf ball tee using your thumb and pointer finger.
- Hold the paper plate steady with your non-dominant hand (the helper hand).
- Aim the blunt end of the tee at the playdough.
- Use strong, controlled force to press the tee into the playdough, creating a deep ‘pothole.’
- Repeat the punching action until the entire playdough surface is filled with holes.
- Try gently twisting the tee as you push it in to change the resistance.
Safety Tip:
Constant and direct adult supervision is required. Playdough and golf ball tees are small objects. They pose a significant choking hazard for children who still place items in their mouths.
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