Age Group: Infants (3–6 months)
🎯 Objectives & Materials
- To encourage the development of the infant’s grasp reflex
- To promote hand-eye coordination
- To stimulate tactile exploration and sensory awareness
🧺 Materials:
- 1 lightweight wooden or fabric grasping ring (smooth, non-toxic, and safe for mouthing)
- A soft, comfortable mat or blanket for the infant to lie on
📋 Step-by-Step Presentation
- Lay the infant comfortably on their back on a soft mat in a quiet, safe space.
- Hold the grasping ring in your hand and let the infant see it. Slowly move it slightly to catch their attention.
- Gently touch the ring to the infant’s palm, allowing their natural reflex to close around it. If they release it, try again gently.
- Once the infant is holding the ring, observe. Allow them to explore it by moving their hand, shaking it, or bringing it to their mouth.
- If the infant is engaged, gently move the ring while it’s in their hand, encouraging them to grasp more tightly or follow the motion.
🔄 Extensions or Variations
- Offer a ring with different textures (e.g., knitted fabric vs. smooth wood).
- Hang the ring from a play gym or low mobile for the infant to bat at.
- Rotate grasping materials weekly to offer new tactile experiences.
- Use rings with gentle rattles inside for added sound exploration.
📝 Notes for Parents/Teachers
- Always supervise your infant during this activity.
- Choose rings made from safe, natural materials—free from chemicals, paints, or small parts.
- Allow repetition! Infants learn through repeated experiences.
- Follow the infant’s cues—if they’re disinterested or tired, try again later.
- This activity supports foundational motor development that leads to purposeful hand use later on.