String - OTPlan

The Cardboard Compass Navigator

Steps:

Use your scissors to cut a large square out of cardboard for your map base.
Draw a colorful landscape with markers including a river and a forest.
Glue a craft stick at each edge of the board and label them North, South, East, and West.
Use a pencil to poke a tiny hole right in the center of your map.
Thread a piece of string through one button and then through the hole in the cardboard.
Tie a thick knot on the back of the board so the button stays attached.
Ask your child to rest their palm on the cardboard without lifting it.
They must use their thumb and index finger to slide the button to different targets.

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child when they are using scissors or small buttons.

The Pencil Power Reel

Steps:

Cut a piece of string about three feet long.
Tape one end of the string to the pencil.
Tape the other end inside a paper cup.
Fill the cup with beans for weight.
Hold the pencil with both hands.
Extend arms straight out in front.
Twist the pencil to wind the string.
Watch the cup lift toward the pencil.
Twist backward to lower the cup safely.

Safety Tip:
Ensure the cup is not too heavy to prevent wrist strain.

The Wobbly Straw Slalom

Steps:

Roll several small balls of playdough and press them onto a table to make steady bases.
Cut your straws into pieces about four inches long.
Stick one straw piece vertically into each playdough base to create slalom poles.
Line up your poles in a straight or zigzag row.
Tie a single large bead to the end of a long piece of string to act as your weight.
Hold the string with both hands and weave the bead around each straw pole from start to finish.
Challenge your child to go faster or weave the string in a specific pattern you call out!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child during play. Beads and playdough are choking hazards, so keep them away from younger siblings.

Tension Track Ball Glide

Steps:

Cut a large rectangle of cardboard for your base.
Use markers and a ruler to draw a straight road down the center.
Cut a smaller cardboard square to serve as your delivery cart.
Use the tip of your scissors to poke two small holes on opposite sides of the cart.
Thread a long piece of string through both holes so the cart can slide.
Use masking tape to secure the four ends of the strings to the base corners.
Balance a ping pong ball on top of the small cart.
Pull the strings outward to glide the cart safely to the finish line!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child when using scissors. Ensure the string is stored away after play to prevent any risk.

The Beaded Cup Wind Chime

Steps:

Use your markers and stickers to decorate the outside of your paper cup with bright colors.
Help your child hold the cup steady while they use the hole puncher to make four holes around the rim.
Cut four pieces of string, each about six inches long, using your scissors.
Show your child how to thread one string through a hole and tie a simple knot to secure it.
Ask your child to pick up a bead and slide it onto one of the hanging strings.
Continue adding beads until the strings are full, then tie a knot at the bottom of each one.

Safety Tip:
Beads are a significant choking hazard. Always supervise your child closely during this activity and keep small parts away from younger siblings.