Ribbon Pull Sensory Basket for Baby
Thread ribbons through a colander and let your baby pull, tug, and discover — a simple fine motor and sensory activity they'll love.
What You'll Need
- 1Plastic colander
- 25-6 ribbons of different textures and colors
- 3Scissors (for adult use only)
What You'll Need
A plastic colander
5-6 ribbons of different textures and colors (satin, grosgrain, velvet, cotton)
Scissors for cutting ribbons (adult use only)
How to Play
Gather five or six ribbons with different widths, textures, and colors.
Thread each ribbon through a hole in the colander so both ends hang down on the outside.
Tie a knot on the inside so ribbons stay put but can still slide when pulled.
Flip the colander upside-down on the floor in front of your seated baby.
Show your baby how pulling one ribbon makes it slide through with a satisfying tug.
Let your baby grab, pull, and feel the different textures as ribbons slide through the holes.
Name the colors and textures as they play: "That's the smooth silky one! Now the bumpy one!"
Tips
Make ribbons at least 12 inches long so your baby has plenty to grab. Cut off any frayed ends.
Always supervise closely — ribbons should never wrap around fingers, wrists, or necks.
The pulling motion is the same one babies need for tasks like pulling off socks later — you're building a real skill.
Try attaching small jingle bells to ribbon ends (knotted securely) for an auditory bonus.
When your baby gets bored with pulling, stuff the ribbons back through together for round two. The re-stuffing is half the fun for older babies.
Age Adaptation Tips
For babies, focus on sensory exploration. Let them watch, touch, and feel the materials. Always supervise closely and keep small items out of reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 10 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: plastic colander, 5-6 ribbons of different textures and colors, scissors (for adult use only).
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 0-1 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This is an easy activity that requires minimal setup and supervision. Great for busy days or when you need something quick.
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