Looking for a cheap and easy toddler activity? I know I always am. This weekend I introduced Jude to pasta beading. He is not quite 17 months, so I knew string would be nothing short of frustrating. I busted out the pipe cleaners instead, stiff enough to make stringing penne a challenge, but not an impossibility.
I set it up in a clear container and showed him the whole process, including the clean up, with him sitting to my right. This technique of demonstration is something I learned from the Montesorri approach to learning. This activity is a great exercise for fine motor skills.
We have been having so much fun making jewelry. I bend one end of the pipe cleaners so that the beads don't fall off, and when he decides he is done, I help him make a wearable item.
Putting the jewelry on and off has provided lots of entertainment.
Especially when the cat joins in the fun.
When he loses interest, I remind him to clean up. Putting all the noodles back in the container is part of the game!
Lastly, I couldn't resist sharing this picture of Jude modeling his latest creation:
Happy Beading ... Ladies.
