Tee Time Smash
Purpose
This fun activity provides wonderful heavy work input (proprioception) to the arm and shoulder muscles. It is excellent for developing the coordination required to use both hands together for tasks like zipping coats or opening containers later on.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Set up the ‘smashing station’ by placing the block of Styrofoam on a sturdy, non-slip surface, like a placemat on the kitchen table or floor.
- Show your child how to place the blunt end of a golf tee onto the Styrofoam block. They must use their non-dominant (helper) hand to stabilize and hold the Styrofoam steady.
- Using a spoon held like a hammer, encourage your child to tap the golf tee until it pushes all the way into the Styrofoam. They must grade their force to ensure the tee is fully embedded.
- Once all the tees are smashed in, switch roles! Have your child use their finger tips or the back of the spoon to pull the tees back out, working on fine motor control and pincer grasp.
Safety Tip:
Ensure close supervision to prevent the child from putting the golf tees in their mouth or throwing the spoon. This activity requires moderate force, so make sure the table is stable.
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