When I look for toys, I try to make sure each one addresses at least one of the developmental stages that children go through. My daughter is at the stage where she plays a little more independently and enjoys exploring toys that stimulate her critical thinking skills and exercise her fine motor skills.
As a mom and certified educator, I’ll share a few tips about the worm and apple lacing toy. I'll also share some educational insights that are quick and to the point so multitasking moms like me can be a mom-boss (or dad-boss) while making sure your baby is the smartest baby on the block!
There are many different lacing toys out there. But, did you know there are many different reasons to let your child explore and play with them? Think of all the skills we do as adults that require lacing - tying shoes, tying knots, sewing, pie making. What else can you brainstorm? So it makes sense that babies and children need to learn how to use their hands in these ways as well.
I recently got the apple and worm toy for my daughter and was surprised to see how quickly she naturally tried to the put the worm in the holes. This involves critical thinking because she realizes the holes are there for a reason and to put the worm through the holes is how the worm gets to one to the other. Seems super simple for us, but for babies and young children this concept has to be taught and practiced. My daughter is also working on her hand-eye-coordination when lacing.
You can model the way the worm laces back and forth, which is a great way to engage in learning with your child. Try to see if your child can pull the string to back the worm out of the holes it was laced in to. This also requires critical thinking. Each of these movements require fine motor skills.
This is a great toy that is quiet, doesn't require batteries and can be used when traveling. Just be aware of the string and any hazards that could come with that.
By helping your child learn to play with lacing toys, you are setting her up for future success with these skills!
