Skill: Distal Finger Control

The ability to move just the very tips of the fingers while keeping the rest of the hand steady. This is key for small, precise movements like writing or buttoning.

The Vertical Bead Zip-Line

The Vertical Bead Zip-Line

Steps:

  • Tape a large piece of cardboard vertically onto a wall.
  • Cut the paper roll into three small rings using scissors.
  • Tape the rings onto the cardboard in a vertical zigzag pattern.
  • Thread a long piece of yarn through all three rings.
  • Tape the top and bottom of the yarn to the cardboard.
  • Slide one large bead onto the yarn before taping the bottom.
  • Give your child a pipe cleaner to use as a poker.
  • Ask them to push the bead up through each ring.
  • Use the helper hand to keep the cardboard steady.

Safety Tip:
Ensure the cardboard is taped securely to the wall to prevent it from falling during play.

Cosmic Antenna Balance

Cosmic Antenna Balance

Steps:

  • Press a medium ball of playdough onto the center of a sturdy cardboard sheet to create the base.
  • Push three Q-Tips into the playdough at an angle to create a tripod stand.
  • Place a baking cup upside down on top of the three Q-Tip ends.
  • Gently rest a fourth Q-Tip across the flat bottom of the upside-down baking cup.
  • Carefully slide one paper clip onto each end of the horizontal Q-Tip to act as satellite dishes.
  • Challenge your child to add more paper clips without tipping the whole antenna over!

Safety Tip:
Ensure the structure is built on a flat, stable surface. Keep small parts away from younger siblings.

The Pool Noodle Penny Bank

The Pool Noodle Penny Bank

Steps:

  • An adult uses a knife to cut several narrow slits into a pool noodle.
  • Use your markers to write point values like 5, 10, or 25 next to each slot.
  • Give your child five coins from a plastic container to hold in their palm at once.
  • Ask your child to move one coin to their fingertips without using their other hand.
  • Challenge them to push the coin firmly into a slot on the pool noodle.
  • Repeat this until all the coins are safely inside the noodle bank!

Safety Tip:
Coins are a choking hazard. Keep them away from younger siblings. Always supervise your child during play.

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 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.