FM.B.30 PULLS RINGS OFF A STICK

This is another exercise in which the child must overcome an obstacle to retrieve an object. Here he must lift the ring up to clear the stick.

If you are also working on Sequence FM.D: Putting, teach this skill before teaching FM.D.37 (places large rings on a stick).

How to Assess

Materials: A short stick (about 10 cm tall) on a base. This can be from a commercial ring-on-stick set, or it can be easily made with dowelling. Several rings – coloured plastic bangles are ideal.

Method: Place the stick and rings in front of your child. Demonstrate taking rings off. Encourage your child to ‘take’. Do not allow your child to tilt the stick towards himself.

Score plus if your child takes off at least 2 rings.

How to Teach

This exercise is easier if the stick is tilted slightly towards your child, but do not tilt it so much that a forward pull alone is enough to free the ring.

Direct your child to grasp the ring and then guide his hands upwards, saying ‘Lift it UP’.

Reduce your physical help until the reminder ‘Lift it UP’ is enough to ensure the correct movement.

Now work with the stick in the vertical position and gradually phase out your verbal reminders.

Playtime and Round-the-house Activities

All sorts of objects make suitable sticks when they are held firmly upright in your hands. Spoons,chopsticks and slender plastic bottles can be used. If you have large enough rings, your own arms can be used too.

Remembering and Extending

This movement becomes harder as the stick becomes higher. Consider whether your child is ready to learn to put rings on a stick – FM.D.37.