The Cardboard Compass Navigator
Purpose
This activity helps your child build the writing muscles in their palms. By sliding a button along a map while keeping their hand on the board, they strengthen their hand arches. It also helps them practice following visual paths. This is great for improving handwriting and focus. Plus, it is a fun way to learn directions!
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Use your scissors to cut a large square out of cardboard for your map base.
- Draw a colorful landscape with markers including a river and a forest.
- Glue a craft stick at each edge of the board and label them North, South, East, and West.
- Use a pencil to poke a tiny hole right in the center of your map.
- Thread a piece of string through one button and then through the hole in the cardboard.
- Tie a thick knot on the back of the board so the button stays attached.
- Ask your child to rest their palm on the cardboard without lifting it.
- They must use their thumb and index finger to slide the button to different targets.
Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child when they are using scissors or small buttons.
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