Skill: Bilateral Hand Use

The ability to use both hands together as a team. We use this for almost everything, like holding the paper with one hand while cutting with the other, or buttoning a shirt.

Secret Cardboard Window Latches

Secret Cardboard Window Latches

Steps:

  • Decorate three index cards using your bright markers.
  • Draw a small treasure or a smiley face on a cardboard sheet.
  • Place a colorful sticker in the center of your drawing for a surprise.
  • Use masking tape to attach one edge of an index card over your drawing.
  • This creates a small door that can open and close.
  • Squeeze a paper clip open slightly using your thumb and index finger.
  • Slide the paper clip over the edge of the card door and the cardboard.
  • Challenge your child to slide the latch off to find the treasure!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child during play to ensure paper clips are used safely and kept away from the mouth.

The Stocking Bean Bag Rescue

The Stocking Bean Bag Rescue

Steps:

  • Place one bean bag into the toe of a long stocking.
  • Hold the top of the stocking with your helper hand.
  • Use your dominant hand to find the bean bag through the fabric.
  • Use your fingers to pinch and push the bean bag up the leg.
  • Slide the bag all the way to the top opening.
  • Take the bean bag out and switch hands to try again!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child during play. Check the bean bag for any tears or loose beads before starting.

The Felt Fish Hook Rescue

The Felt Fish Hook Rescue

Steps:

  • Use your markers to draw 5 small fish shapes on your felt.
  • Carefully cut out the felt fish using your scissors.
  • Cut 5 tiny strips of cardboard, about 1 inch long each.
  • Glue the ends of a cardboard strip to a fish to make a small loop.
  • Repeat this for all 5 fish and place them inside your basket.
  • Take a pipe cleaner and twist one end into a small, sturdy hook.
  • Wrap the other end of the pipe cleaner around your child’s index finger.
  • Challenge your child to hold the basket steady with one hand.
  • Use the finger hook to snag a fish loop and lift it out!

Safety Tip:
Pipe cleaners have wire ends. Ensure the ends are curled inward or covered with tape to prevent scratches.

The Carpet Sled Racer

The Carpet Sled Racer

Steps:

  • Find a large, flat piece of sturdy cardboard from a box.
  • Use a hole puncher to make two holes in the center of one short edge.
  • Thread a long rope through the holes and tie it with a very tight knot.
  • Place a soft pillow on the cardboard to make a comfy seat for your child.
  • Have your child sit or kneel on the pillow while holding the cardboard sides.
  • Pull the rope slowly to give your little racer a smooth ride across the rug.
  • Challenge them to keep their back straight and stay balanced as you move.

Safety Tip:
Always pull the sled slowly and ensure the path is clear of sharp corners or hard furniture.

The Wobbly Ribbon Tunnel Run

The Wobbly Ribbon Tunnel Run

Steps:

  • Cut five short pieces of colorful ribbon using your scissors.
  • Tape both ends of each ribbon onto a flat cardboard sheet.
  • Make sure each ribbon forms a small arch or tunnel.
  • Place a ping pong ball on one side of the cardboard.
  • Ask your child to hold the cardboard with both hands.
  • Challenge them to tilt the board to roll the ball.
  • Guide the ball through every ribbon tunnel to the end!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child during play. Ensure the ping pong ball is kept away from the mouth to avoid choking.