Weighted Puck Push
- Play time:
- 10 to 15 minutes
- Setup:
- 10 minutes
- Where:
- Floor
Why it helps
This game provides heavy work input, strengthening the muscles in the shoulders and arms. It also improves the child's ability to plan movement and grade the force of their push.
Steps
- Prepare the 'pucks' by filling several small Ziplock Bags about 1/4 full with dry Beans or Rice. Seal them tightly.
- Create a long ‘push stick’ by taping two Paper Rolls together end-to-end with Masking Tape to form a hockey stick.
- Use Construction Paper and Masking Tape to create a goal on the floor about six feet away from the starting line.
- Start in a half-kneeling position behind the pucks. Use the push stick to tap and guide one weighted puck at a time toward the goal.
- Encourage the child to use the stick to sweep the pucks from their left side to their right side to practice Crossing Midline.
Safety tip: Ensure the playing area is clear of trip hazards. When using the long stick, remind the child to keep a safe distance from others and always supervise play.
Make it easier
- Move the goal closer, about three big steps away, and make it wider.
- Start in tall kneeling, with both knees down, which is steadier than half-kneeling.
- Use one long wrapping paper tube as the stick, which is sturdier than two taped rolls.
Make it harder
- Set up cups or blocks as defenders to steer the pucks around.
- Switch the front knee every few pucks so both sides get a turn.
- Make some pucks heavier and some lighter, and try to stop each one inside the goal.
What to watch for
- Notice whether your child turns the trunk to sweep across the body, or shuffles the knees so the stick stays on one side.
- Watch how hard your child pushes. Do the pucks stop at the goal, or slide right past it?
- If half-kneeling is uncomfortable, put a folded towel or a cushion under the knee.
Where this helps in daily life
Pushing with steady force while reaching across the body helps kids sweep with a broom, push a laundry basket across the floor, and reach across the table for a cup.
Need personalized support?
While these activities are great for home practice, nothing replaces the guidance of a licensed therapist. If you are in Irvine, CA or the Orange County area and have concerns about your child's Crossing Midline, we invite you to connect with us.
Contact Tumble N' Dots Therapy →These activities are for home practice and don't replace the guidance of a licensed therapist.
