Weighted Clip Tower Build
Purpose
This activity is a powerhouse for developing crucial hand muscles. Squeezing the clothespin while holding a small weight (the bead) strengthens the finger arches. This is key for future skills like managing buttons and using scissors easily. When your child holds the container steady, they practice proximal stability. This means they are stabilizing their shoulder and arm so their hand can perform precise tasks. Aiming the clip onto the narrow stick refines pincer control and eye-hand coordination. Repeated strong squeezes provide calming proprioceptive feedback to the nervous system.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Press a large lump of playdough firmly into the bottom of the container to create a stable, resistant base.
- Ask your child to push 6 to 8 craft sticks vertically into the playdough base. Ensure they stand up straight like towers.
- Take one clothespin. Use a strong squeeze to clip one bead securely onto the end of the clothespin. This is your weighted clip!
- Challenge your child to hold the container steady with their helper hand to keep the towers from moving.
- Using their dominant hand, squeeze the weighted clothespin open. Carefully clip the entire unit firmly onto one of the standing craft sticks.
- Repeat the squeezing and clipping action until all the sticks are covered in colorful, weighted clips. Try removing them and repeating the process!
Safety Tip:
Constant and direct adult supervision is required. Beads and playdough are small objects and pose a significant choking hazard for children under five. Ensure materials are kept away from the mouth, nose, and ears.
