Material: Paper Plate

Roller Path Painting

Roller Path Painting

Steps:

  • Use a marker to draw a simple, winding path, large circle, or thick zigzag line onto the surface of the paper plate.
  • Prepare the paint station: Pour a small amount of tempera paint into a shallow container. Use a paper roll (like a toilet paper roll) as your ‘paint roller.’
  • Show your child how to hold the paper roll vertically, using their fingertips like a handle. They should aim to keep their wrist slightly bent backward (extended).
  • Have your child dip just the end of the paper roll into the paint, then transfer it to the paper plate.
  • Challenge your child to roll the painted end of the tube precisely along the marked path. They must use wrist and forearm movements to steer the roller and stay on the line.
  • Try rolling back and forth along the same path until the line is completely covered in color.

Safety Tip:
Always supervise young children closely during painting activities. Ensure all paint used is non-toxic and washable. Monitor to ensure the paper roll pieces are not put in the mouth.

Plate Cymbal March

Plate Cymbal March

Steps:

  • Gather two paper plates (one for each hand). Help your child practice using the hole puncher to create 4 to 6 holes around the edges of each plate. Remind them to hold the plate steady with one hand while punching with the other!
  • Take three pipe cleaners and twist them together tightly to create one thick, sturdy ‘handle’ for each plate.
  • Help your child thread the pipe cleaner handle through two opposing holes on the plate edge. Twist the ends of the pipe cleaner handle securely on the front of the plate so it won’t slip.
  • Once both plates have handles, encourage your child to march around the room, clapping the ‘cymbals’ together. Marching helps them integrate both sides of the body while providing great sensory input.

Safety Tip:
Always supervise children when using the hole puncher to prevent them from putting fingers inside the mechanism or attempting to punch clothes.

Squeeze Noodle Maker

Squeeze Noodle Maker

Steps:

  • Adult Step: Take a Ziplock Bag and cut a tiny corner (less than 1/4 inch) off the bottom corner. Roll a soft piece of Playdough into a log shape and place it inside the bag, pushing it toward the cut corner.
  • Place the Paper Plate on the table. Show your child how to hold the top of the bag securely with their helper hand to provide proximal stability.
  • Encourage your child to use their dominant hand to squeeze the Playdough firmly downward, forcing the dough through the tiny hole to create ‘spaghetti noodles’ on the plate. Cheer on their strong effort!

Safety Tip:
Constant adult supervision is required. Ensure the Ziplock bag and any loose pieces of extruded dough are monitored and not placed in the mouth, as they pose a choking hazard.

Flying Unicorn

Step 1: Cut out a picture of a unicorn.

Step 2: Glue it on a paper plate.

Step 3: Hole punch around the edges of the plate.

Step 4: Lace string through each hole, and tie a knot to secure it in place.

Step 5: Option to curl the strings, add jewels, or color the unicorn for more fine motor opportunities.

Step 6: Watch the strands fly in the air as you spin & wave it around! Enjoy!