Sticky Sequin Tongs Pull

Ages:: Preschoolers (3 to 5), School age (6+)
Play time:: 10 to 15 minutes
Setup:: 20 minutes
Where:: Table

Why it helps

Pulling glued pom-poms free with tongs takes finger strength and a slow, controlled pull. The tacky glue pushes back, which helps your child feel how much force to use. Holding the board still with the helper hand gets both hands working together, and dropping each jewel into the container builds eye-hand coordination for later tasks like cutting and writing.

Steps

Before play, squeeze six to eight thick dots of glue onto the cardboard, spaced a few inches apart.
Press a pom-pom into each glue dot. Dab a little glue on top of each pom-pom and let your child press a sequin onto it, like a jewel.
Let the glue set for about 30 minutes, then test one pom-pom with the tongs. It should take a slow, firm pull to free it, so wait longer if it pops off too easily.
Set the board on the table with the empty container nearby. Ask your child to hold the board steady with their helper hand.
Show your child how to open the tongs, close them around one pom-pom, and squeeze.
Ask your child to pull slowly and steadily until the sticky pom-pom lets go of the board.
Ask your child to carry the jewel over and drop it into the container. Keep going until the board is empty.

Safety tip: Sequins and pom-poms are small, so stay close, keep them out of mouths, and gather every piece after play. Keep a damp cloth nearby for gluey fingers and tongs.

Make it easier

Use the biggest pom-poms you have, since they are easier to grab and hold.
Let your child pull the first few off with their fingers to feel how much tug it takes.
Use fewer glue dots, spaced far apart, so each one is easy to reach.

Make it harder

Use small pom-poms and pull them off with tweezers instead of tongs.
Call out a sequin color and rescue only the jewels that match.
Hold the board up at an angle with the helper hand instead of resting it flat.

What to watch for

Notice how your child holds the tool. A grip with the thumb, pointer, and middle fingers, like holding a pencil, gives the most control.
Watch the pull. A slow, steady pull works better than a quick yank, and kids often figure this out after a few tries.
If dried glue on the fingers bothers your child, keep a damp cloth nearby and let them use only the tool.

Where this helps in daily life

Pinching and pulling small, flat items builds the control kids need to peel stickers, pick a coin up off the table, and pull the tab on a snack package.

These activities are for home practice and don't replace the guidance of a licensed therapist.