The Clothespin Cliff Climber

The Clothespin Cliff Climber

Steps:

  • Place the shoe box on its side on a flat table.
  • Use masking tape to stick five index cards vertically along the side of the box.
  • Make sure the cards are spaced out like steps on a ladder.
  • Use markers to draw a small start flag on the bottom card and a finish flag on the top card.
  • Have your child use a clothespin to clip onto the bottom index card.
  • Challenge them to unclip and move the clothespin up to the next card without the box sliding.
  • Continue until the climber reaches the top flag!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child during this activity to ensure they use the clothespins safely on the cards.

The Foil Mirror Portrait

The Foil Mirror Portrait

Steps:

  • Glue a flat piece of aluminum foil to a sturdy cardboard sheet.
  • Make sure the foil is as smooth as possible to create a mirror effect.
  • Ask your child to look at their reflection and point to their eyes.
  • Have them use a marker to draw their eyes right on the shiny foil.
  • Encourage them to add their nose, mouth, and hair to finish the portrait.
  • Use different colors to make the portrait bright and fun!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child during the activity. Ensure they handle the cardboard and foil safely. Tuck the foil edges behind the cardboard to prevent scratches.

The Index Card Pincer-Flip

The Index Card Pincer-Flip

Steps:

  • Use your markers to draw a large dot on one side of ten index cards.
  • Place the cards on a table with the dots facing down.
  • Have your child use their thumb and index finger to flip one card at a time.
  • They should quickly name the color and place the card into the cup.
  • Challenge them to flip all the cards using only their non-dominant hand.
  • Try to beat a personal speed record to keep it exciting!

Safety Tip:
Adult supervision is recommended. Ensure the child remains seated at the table to focus on the fine motor movements.

Vertical Post-It Peek-a-Boo

Vertical Post-It Peek-a-Boo

Steps:

  • Use masking tape to secure the cardboard vertically to a wall.
  • Make sure it is at your child’s chest or eye level.
  • Draw five large, bright shapes on the cardboard using your markers.
  • Write a different number inside each shape from 1 to 5.
  • Cover each shape completely with a single Post-It note.
  • Ask your child to reach up and peel a note to find a shape.
  • Challenge them to find a specific number you call out!
  • Have them stick the peeled notes onto their clothes for extra fun.

Safety Tip:
Choking Hazard. This activity uses Post-Its and masking tape. Small pieces of paper or tape can be a choking hazard. Always supervise your child closely. Ensure they do not put these materials in their mouth.

The Secret Keyhole Drop

The Secret Keyhole Drop

Steps:

  • Cut a narrow slot in a piece of cardboard using your scissors.
  • Use your markers to draw a treasure chest or a door around the secret slot.
  • Tape a craft stick to the edge of a large button to create a key handle.
  • Ask your child to hold the cardboard upright with their helper hand.
  • They must twist their wrist to align the button with the slot to push it through.
  • Try making the slot horizontal or vertical to change the wrist movement.

Safety Tip:
Adult supervision is required when using scissors and small buttons to prevent any choking hazards.