Beading and Lacing - Finally We Hit the Jackpot!``

K's occupational therapist  has been suggesting that K try beading for a long time.  We try to follow her interests as much as possible and choose activities that she enjoys.  I believe kids learn better when they enjoy the activity.

This is the first set we bought.  We
thought the large beads would be easy for her to thread.  K hated them!

Next we tried these beads. She refused to use these ones for the purpose of beading too.

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We even tried using pipe cleaners because the OT said it would be easier for her.  She hated that.

Next we tried sparkly pipe cleaners, and guess what?  She hated that too.

It wasn't a complete waste though.  She loves pouring beads from one cup to another, counting, sorting by color & many other games - just not beading!

We found these neat little containers at the local dollar store. 

  K would spend 1/2 hour at a time pushing beads through & sorting them - they are great for strengthening little hands!...............just not for beading!

Lacing cards were recommended too, but of course - she hated them!

Then, the other day, I found this set at a local rummage sale!  It was a 50 cent purchase!

She loves the sea animal pics!

She did the octopus with minimal help, & finished off the dolphin her sister started! It just goes to show what can happen when you follow your child's interests - and have a little luck on your side!

As a side note:  many of the early learning toys (everything on this page except the dollar store containers) we purchase come from 2nd hand stores or rummage sales.  I am very choosy about what I buy, but have gotten some great deals!  I couldn't afford 1/2 of this stuff otherwise! I do clean everything with natural cleaners before using them and they are as good as new!