The Newspaper Crane Challenge

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

Why it helps

This activity is a fantastic way to build strength in the shoulders and arms. By using a long newspaper rod, your child has to work harder to control their movements. This type of heavy work can help children feel more grounded and focused. It also encourages them to use both hands together. Planning how to scoop and move the block helps with motor planning skills. Your child will love the challenge of being a crane operator!

Steps

Help your child roll a large sheet of newspaper into a tight, long rod.
Use several pieces of masking tape to keep the paper rod from unrolling.
Tape a small box firmly to one end of the long newspaper rod.
Scatter several small blocks on the floor in front of your child.
Ask your child to hold the handle end of the rod with both hands.
Challenge them to reach out and use the box to scoop up one block.
Have them lift the block and carry it to a target box on the floor.

Safety tip: Ensure the play area is clear of sharp furniture while your child moves the long rod.

Make it easier

Make a shorter rod, which is lighter and easier to steer.
Use a bigger box as the scoop.
Scoop soft, light things like crumpled paper balls or rolled-up socks.

Make it harder

Use the crane to stack blocks into a tower inside the target box.
Move the target box farther away or behind a low pillow wall.
Count how many blocks your child can move in one minute.

What to watch for

Notice whether your child keeps elbows bent and close or lets the rod droop toward the floor.
Watch how your child turns the rod to tip the box and drop the block.
If the long rod feels hard to control, let your child kneel so the scoop is closer to the floor.