Teddy's Buttons: illustration of a toddler doing the activity

Teddy's Buttons

from 26 months · 5-10 min · Fine motor

What you need

  • a soft toy
  • an old cardigan or clothing items with big buttons

How to do it

  1. Put an old cardigan with big buttons on a soft toy.
  2. Let them undo the buttons to take it off.
  3. Put it back on and let them try doing one up.
  4. Swap in another old top with bigger buttons.

Why it matters

Practising on teddy takes the pressure off, and the pinching and pushing is exactly the same as on their own coat.

What they're learning

The same movement
Teddy's buttons work just like theirs.
No rush
Nobody's waiting to go out.
Play
Dressing teddy is a game they'll come back to.

What to look for

Watch for them turning teddy round to get at a button.

A tip

Use big buttons sewn firmly on, and keep loose ones away. Stay with them while they practise.

Make it easier or harder

Easier: let them just undo the buttons

Harder: let them dress teddy right through, buttons and all

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Fine motor activities · Activities for 2 year olds

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