Stick Bridge Clip
Purpose
This fun upside-down game is great for building hidden strength! Clipping clothespins is an excellent way to boost hand and finger strength, which is vital for later tasks like buttoning and holding a pencil. Because your child is lying on their back (the supine position) and reaching overhead, this activity also provides a fantastic workout for core stability and shoulder strength (proximal stability). This stability is the strong base needed for precise finger movements. Aiming the clips requires focus and works on visual motor skills and eye-hand coordination in a challenging new plane of movement.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Prep the “bridge” by using masking tape to secure 5 to 7 craft sticks in a row onto the underside of a sturdy, stable table (or a sturdy chair seat).
- Place the pile of clothespins within easy reach on the floor beneath the table.
- Challenge your child to lie on their back on the floor, directly under the table, facing the craft sticks. This is the starting position.
- Encourage your child to reach up and squeeze open one clothespin at a time. They must aim carefully to clip the pin onto the ‘bridge’ (the craft stick).
- Continue until every stick is covered in colorful clothespins. To repeat, they can clip them all off and start again!
Safety Tip:
Maintain constant adult supervision. Clothespins are small objects and pose a potential choking hazard for children who might still place items in their mouths. Ensure the table used is stable and cannot tip over during the activity.
