Hand Sandwich
What you need
- your lap, or a chair next to theirs
How to do it
- Put one hand flat, ask them to put a hand on top, then add your other hand and theirs to make a sandwich.
- Give the sandwich a slow, gentle squeeze and count to three.
- Pull out the bottom hand and put it on top, and keep building.
Why it matters
A firm, gentle squeeze is calming for a toddler's body, and taking turns to build the stack keeps them focused and close.
What they're learning
- Taking turns
- Knowing whose hand moves next keeps the stack going.
- Self-regulation
- A slow squeeze helps a wriggly body settle.
- Counting
- Counting to three before each squeeze, every time.
What to look for
Watch for them pulling a hand out and putting it on top without you asking.
A tip
Keep the squeeze firm but gentle. Many toddlers relax under steady pressure, so slow it down if they are getting upset.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: just hold their hand between yours and squeeze gently on three
Harder: build the stack faster and faster, then slow it right down again
