Skill: Pincer Control

Using the tips of the thumb and index finger to pick up small objects. This delicate movement is used for eating finger foods, buttoning clothes, and eventually holding a pencil.

The Silver Pan Web Weaver

The Silver Pan Web Weaver

Steps:

  • Use markers to draw ten dots around the rim of the pan.
  • Use a pencil to poke a hole through each dot.
  • Tie one end of the yarn to the first hole.
  • Thread the yarn across the pan to another hole.
  • Continue until the silver web is finished!

Safety Tip:
Poking holes with a pencil requires steady hands. Always supervise your child to prevent any pokes to the skin.

The Tape Rescue Mission

The Tape Rescue Mission

Steps:

  • Cut several small strips of masking tape.
  • Press one strip gently onto your child’s knee.
  • Ask your child to find the tape on their body.
  • Encourage them to peel the tape off using their fingers.
  • Try placing tape on their elbow, foot, or hand next.
  • Cheer for them as they name each body part!

Safety Tip:
Choking Hazard. This activity involves masking tape which can be torn into small pieces. Always supervise your child to ensure they do not put tape in their mouth.

The Card Link Arch

The Card Link Arch

Steps:

  • Place the paper cup upside down on a flat table.
  • Pick up two index cards with your helper hand.
  • Slide a paper clip onto the edges to join the cards.
  • Repeat this to make a long chain of four or five cards.
  • Curve the cards over the cup to form a bridge.
  • Add extra clips to the bottom of the end cards for weight.
  • Slide the cup out slowly to see if the arch stays up.

Safety Tip:
Ensure the child remains seated at the table and uses only the craft materials.

The Woven Stick Bridge

The Woven Stick Bridge

Steps:

  • Cut a long, narrow rectangle from a piece of sturdy cardboard.
  • Glue several craft sticks across the rectangle, leaving small gaps.
  • Wait for the glue to dry until the sticks are very firm.
  • Tie a piece of colorful yarn to the first craft stick.
  • Weave the yarn over the first stick and under the second one.
  • Continue the pattern until you reach the end of the bridge.
  • Use markers to draw a scene with water under the bridge.

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child when they use scissors or handle yarn.

The Bubble Wrap Pincer Pop

The Bubble Wrap Pincer Pop

Steps:

  • Place a small sheet of bubble wrap on the table.
  • Use markers to color five bubbles red and five bubbles blue.
  • Give your child a clothespin and ask them to pinch it open.
  • Challenge them to use the clothespin to squeeze and pop only the red bubbles.
  • Switch hands and try to pop all the blue bubbles with the other hand.
  • Listen for the pop sound every time they squeeze a bubble!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child to ensure they do not put small pieces of plastic wrap in their mouth.