Skill: Proximal Stability

Strength and steadiness in the center of the body. A stable core and shoulders provide a solid base so the hands can be steady for writing or cutting.

The Masking Tape Web Bridge

The Masking Tape Web Bridge

Steps:

  • Find an empty shoe box and remove the lid.
  • Stretch four strips of masking tape across the open top.
  • Make sure the sticky side is facing up toward the ceiling.
  • Give your child a pile of craft sticks to hold.
  • Ask them to press one stick across two tape strips.
  • Keep adding sticks until a solid bridge floor is made.
  • Place a small stuffed animal on the bridge for a ride!
  • Gently peel the sticks off to start the build again.

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child to ensure the masking tape does not get stuck on their hair or skin.

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 Balloon Cup Wobble

The Balloon Cup Wobble

Steps:

  • Blow up a balloon and tie it securely.
  • Place the balloon inside a bowl so it stands upright.
  • Use masking tape to stick three baking cups onto the top curve of the balloon.
  • Give your child a pair of tweezers and a small pile of colorful beads.
  • Ask your child to hold the bowl with one hand to keep it still.
  • Challenge them to use the tweezers to pick up one bead at a time.
  • Carefully drop the bead into one of the baking cups without tipping the balloon.
  • Watch the balloon wobble as they try to balance the weight of the beads!

Safety Tip:
CHOKING HAZARD: Beads and balloons are small parts or can break into small pieces. Always supervise your child closely during this activity. Keep materials away from younger siblings.

The Floating Island Bean Drop

The Floating Island Bean Drop

Steps:

  • Fill the aluminium foil pan halfway with cool water to create your ‘ocean.’
  • Place the sponge gently into the water so it floats like a tiny island.
  • Put a handful of dry beans into a small bowl next to the pan.
  • Show your toddler how to pick up one bean using their thumb and pointer finger.
  • Encourage your child to carefully set the bean onto the center of the floating sponge.
  • Watch as the sponge bobs and tilts with each new bean added!
  • Challenge them to see how many beans the island can hold before it gets too heavy.
  • When finished, they can use their fingers to scoop the beans off the sponge.

Safety Tip:
CHOKING HAZARD: Beans are small and pose a risk. Always supervise your toddler closely and store materials safely after play.

The Feather Balance Path

The Feather Balance Path

Steps:

  • Use masking tape to make a long line on the floor.
  • Ask your child to stand at one end of the path.
  • Have them hold their hand out flat like a tray.
  • Place a soft feather on the back of their hand.
  • Challenge them to walk slowly along the line to the finish.
  • If the feather falls, just stop and put it back on!

Safety Tip:
Clear any toys near the tape path to prevent trips while your child is focusing.