As your toddler is transitioning into a preschooler, there are more fun fine motor activities to try. These are important, as they get the hands and fingers ready for writing. Using cut straws is a simple threading activity to strengthen fine motor skills. They are easier to handle than bead threading, an activity that comes after this.
Threading activities are nice when you are looking for some quiet time. Even our busiest children can calm down and focus as they thread the straw pieces. You can set them up on a tray for the table, or put them in a busy bag for when you are out and about. (Think about waiting at a restaurant or doctor’s appointment!)
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What you will need for this activity:
- Plastic straws, cut into small sections
- Tipped threading yarn
Setting up this activity:
We separated the cut straws by color and placed them in small containers. I like to tie one straw piece to the end of the yarn so that the rest don’t slip off during the threading process.
It takes great concentration to hold the yarn with one hand while threading the straw through it with the other hand. If a child is having a difficult time, I will hold the piece of yarn while he pushes the straw through it. Then he will hold the yarn while I push the straw through it. Eventually he will master the skill of using both hands on his own.
I have found threading activities to be a wonderful way to calm the children, and sometimes we will use them during transitions when we have to wait a bit before moving on to the next activity. Keep a container of materials handy for those moments. It really helps!
Another plus to this activity is that it can be done independently or in a group, at home or in a classroom setting
When finished threading the straw pieces:
Untie the straw that was originally attached to the end of the yarn. Tie the two ends of yarn together. Now it’s a necklace!
Looking for more simple activities to calm your child?
- Frogs and Snails and Puppy Dog Tails: 10 Simple Learning Activities for Preschoolers
- Fantastic Fun and Learning: Simple Name Activities for Preschoolers
- Teach Preschool: Simple Cotton Ball Painting
- The Measured Mom: Simple Toddler Ideas
- Mess for Less: Fine Motor Necklace
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Looks like a great activity! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you, Stephanie! They really had fun.
I LOVE this! I think my toddler would really enjoy it and I just happen to have a bag of coloured straws. We might give this a go tomorrow. Thanks so much for sharing with the #pinitparty. have pinned 🙂
Thank you! Let me know how it goes!
Love the new site design, Sheryl! Do you buy the pre-cut straws or cut them yourself? I bought some pre-cut straws one year, but they were smaller in diameter than normal straws and the kids had some difficulty lacing them. Let me know where you got yours. Message me at FB or email if you get a chance. TY!
Thank you, Karen! I sent you a message. I am almost certain I got them from Discount School Supply.
love this. will try it.