Pool Noodle - OTPlan

Noodle Chop Sort

Steps:

Use markers to color strips of paper that match the colors of your pool noodle. Tape these colored strips onto two separate baskets to create sorting targets.
Give your child the pool noodle and a pair of safety scissors. Encourage them to hold the noodle firmly with their ‘helper hand’ to keep it steady.
Challenge your child to cut the pool noodle into small, thin ‘coins’ or ‘slices.’ Remind them to use strong, full squeezes of the scissors.
Once the noodle is completely chopped, ask your child to look at the color targets. Sort the colorful foam coins into the matching color baskets.

Safety Tip:
Always supervise closely when using scissors. Use child-safe scissors appropriate for their hand size. Since the age range includes younger preschoolers, ensure that cut noodle pieces are not placed in the mouth, as they can pose a choking hazard if ingested.

Noodle Mountain Roll

A preschool girl guiding a tennis ball down a vertical DIY pool noodle track taped to cardboard. She is using bilateral hand use and focusing intently; A close-up view of a child crossing midline to reach the top of a homemade pool noodle ball ramp secured with colorful masking tape in a kitchen setting.

Steps:

An adult should safely cut the pool noodle lengthwise to create a long U-shaped channel (this will be your ramp).
Help your child use masking tape to secure the pool noodle ramps onto a large piece of standing cardboard or a sturdy wall in a zigzag or spiral pattern. Make sure the segments line up so the tennis ball can transfer easily.
Have your child stand centered in front of the track. Encourage them to start the tennis ball at the top, using both hands together to place the ball gently into the ramp opening.
As the ball rolls down, encourage them to follow the ball visually and use one hand to stabilize the cardboard wall (or the noodle itself) while the other hand reaches across their body (crossing midline) to catch the ball or guide it into the next section.

Safety Tip:
Ensure the cardboard or base used for the track is stable and cannot tip over or fall onto the child. Always supervise standing activities.

Color Codes

This color-coding activity provides the child with a fun chance to address fine motor skills and bilateral coordination.

Preparation:

Step 1: Draw different code sheets, such as the one shown in the picture.
Step 2: Cut a portion of the pool noodle.
Step 3: Have insert the golf ball tees into the pool noodle to imitate the code.

*Be sure to provide necessary assistance as the bottom of the golf ball tee is pointed.