Threading beads is a classic way to build fine motor control and eye-hand coordination. These activities use beads for lacing, sorting, and patterns that also practice pincer grasp. Beads are a choking hazard, so supervise closely and choose large beads for young children.
Shop beads on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, OTPlan earns from qualifying purchases.




Added Feb 16 · Ages 6+Beaded Joint DancerBilateral Hand UseMotor PlanningSequencingYou'll need: Beads · Construction Paper · Hole Puncher · Markers · Masking Tape · Scissors · Yarn
Added Feb 15 · Ages 3 to 5Foil Gem Treasure RescueBilateral Hand UsePincer GraspTactile PerceptionYou'll need: Aluminum Foil · Aluminum Foil Pan · Beads · Ice Cube Tray · Scissors · Tweezers
Added Feb 15 · Ages 3+Sticky Maze Jewel HuntDistal Finger ControlEye-Hand CoordinationMotor PlanningYou'll need: Beads · Cardboard · Markers · Masking Tape · Plastic Container · Tweezers
Added Feb 7 · Ages 3+Putty Pancake DecoratorsBilateral Hand UsePincer ControlProprioceptionYou'll need: Beads · Paper Plate · Theraputty · Tongs · Tweezers
Added Feb 5 · Ages 3 to 5Tacky Track Bead PushEye-Hand CoordinationPincer GraspProprioceptionYou'll need: Beads · Beans · Cardboard · Container · Craft Sticks · Glue · Markers
Added Feb 1 · Ages 3 to 5Wet Sponge Weight WeaveBilateral Hand UseGraspProprioceptionYou'll need: Beads · Container · Craft Sticks · Sponge · Water · Yarn
Added Jan 21 · Ages 3+Putty Piston PushPincer GraspProprioceptionProximal StabilityYou'll need: Beads · Container · Craft Sticks · Theraputty
Added Jan 10 · Ages 3 to 5Foil Push Bead GardenEye-Hand CoordinationPincer GraspProprioceptionYou'll need: Aluminum Foil Pan · Beads · Golf Ball Tees · Markers · Plastic Container
Added Jan 8 · Ages 6+Card Flipper LaunchCuttingFine Motor ControlPincer ControlYou'll need: Beads · Craft Sticks · Index Cards · Plastic Container · Scissors
Added Jan 2 · Ages 3 to 5Vertical Bead RunEye-Hand CoordinationPincer GraspWrist ExtensionYou'll need: Beads · Cardboard · Masking Tape · Paper Roll · Plastic Container · Scissors
Added Nov 21 · Ages 3+Precision Bead PathDistal Finger ControlEye-Hand CoordinationPincer GraspYou'll need: Beads · Glue · Index Cards · Markers
Added Apr 20 · Ages 3+Ice Cube HandwashActivities of daily living (ADL)Bilateral Hand UseFine Motor ControlIn-hand Manipulation+1 moreYou'll need: Beads · Ice Cube TrayWhile 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 development, we invite you to connect with us.
Contact Tumble N' Dots Therapy →