Sticky Rice Push-Through
Purpose
This activity gives little hands a great heavy work workout. Pushing the sticky rice creations through a small slot provides deep input, which builds finger and hand strength. Holding the container steady with the helper hand works on Proximal Stability and Bilateral Hand Use. Picking up the rice and manipulating the stick also develops the crucial Pincer Grasp needed for holding a crayon or pencil later on. This is a powerful strengthening activity disguised as play.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Prep the Pucks: Squeeze a small circle of glue onto an Index Card. Sprinkle a thick layer of dry Rice onto the glue and press it down firmly. Let the glue set for 15 minutes until tacky.
- Adult Prep: Use scissors to cut a tight, narrow slot (about 1.5 inches long) into the Container lid. Secure the lid tightly onto the container with Masking Tape.
- Tear the Index Card into small squares, making sure each rice/glue spot stays centered on its own small piece.
- Stabilize: Ask the child to hold the container firmly steady with their helper hand on the table.
- Load and Deliver: Pick up one Craft Stick. Use the stick to push the resistant, sticky rice puck straight through the narrow slot. Repeat this until all pucks are delivered!
Safety Tip:
Constant and direct adult supervision is required. Dry rice is a small material and poses a choking hazard for children who still place objects in their mouths. Ensure materials are used only as intended.
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