Why This Activity is Great for Your Child
Have you ever noticed how fascinated little ones are with everyday tasks? Opening and closing bottles might seem simple to us, but for young children, it’s a big deal! This activity is a fantastic way to help your child develop important skills while having fun.
What You’ll Need
- A tray with 5-7 bottles of different sizes, colors, and shapes.
What Your Child Will Learn
- Hand-eye coordination
- Concentration skills
- Independence
- The practical skill of opening and closing bottles
How to Get Started
- Invite your child to join you for this fun little task.
- Show them where the tray of bottles is kept.
- Demonstrate how to carefully carry the tray with both hands, making sure it stays level.
- Guide your child to place the tray back on the shelf, then encourage them to carry it to the table.
- Help them position the tray properly on the table before sitting down together.
- Let them know you’re going to show them how to open and close bottles, and that they will get a turn too!
Opening the Bottle
- Pick up a bottle from the tray, holding it securely with your right hand.
- Place the bottle gently on the table without making a sound.
- Use your left hand to hold the body of the bottle steady.
- Place your right-hand fingers evenly around the lid and start turning it counterclockwise (to the left).
- Keep turning until the lid is loose, then lift it straight up to show that the bottle is open.
- Flip the lid so the inside faces up and place it gently on the table.
- Pause and look at your child to let them take it all in.
Closing the Bottle
- Hold the bottle steady with your left hand.
- Pick up the lid and place it carefully back on top.
- Turn the lid clockwise (to the right) until it is tightly closed.
- Gently place the bottle back on the tray.
- Repeat with another bottle before inviting your child to try!
Now It’s Their Turn! Encourage your child to give it a go. They might need a little help at first, but they’ll soon get the hang of it. Watch their excitement as they master the skill of opening and closing bottles all by themselves!
Helpful Tips
- Encourage your child to place the bottles gently on the table.
- Remind them to hold the bottle steady while opening and closing it.
- If they struggle with unscrewing, suggest they turn the lid slowly and take their time.
Perfect Age for This Activity This activity is ideal for children aged two and a half and up. It’s a great way to introduce them to practical life skills while making learning fun!
Give this a try and watch your little one’s confidence and coordination grow with each twist of a bottle cap!