Peanut Ball Solve The Puzzle
Tools
Peanut Ball (Click Here)
Shape Puzzle
Activity Description
Children will lay on their tummy on top of the peanut ball while bearing weight on the hands. They will attempt to put a shape puzzle together.
Steps
Step 1: Have your child start by kneeling behind the peanut ball. Slowly, rest your tummy on top of the peanut ball and move forward to bear weight on their hands.
Step 2: Stay close to your child with hands positioned around the hips for safety
Step 3: Complete the shape puzzle by naming the shapes and placing it into the correct slot.
Step 4: When finished, slowly roll back into the starting position
Goals
Peanut balls are a favorite OT tool to have. There are so many ways one can use a peanut ball. In this activity, children will work on strengthening the upper body and improving shoulder stability. When legs are not touching the floor, children will engage their core muscles and attempt to balance themselves while completing the activity.
Tips for Parents
Parents, for children that have impulsive behavior tendencies or weak upper body and core muscles, it is extremely important to be near your child when participating in this activity. Placing your hands around the hips of your child offers support as needed. If you find the activity may be too challenging, take frequent breaks. You can also rely more on the peanut ball to hold your child by not rolling too far forward over the peanut ball.
