DIY Posting Frame

This DIY hack transforms a simple IKEA picture frame into an engaging activity for babies and toddlers, where they can post objects into a slot and explore magnetism, fine motor skills, and object permanence.

Learning skill

FINE-MOTOR CONTROL

AGE 2 YR +

Small items are chocking hazards

PREPARATION

5 min


SUPPLIES

IKEA Tolsby Frame, Clear Tape, Plastic Circles, Magnetic Wand (optional)

  1. Prepare the Frame: Remove the two clear plastic inserts from the IKEA Tolsby frame. 

  2. Create the Posting Slot: Secure the clear plastic inserts with tape along the outside of the longer sides of the frame, leaving the top open to create a slot for posting objects. This will allow your child to see the objects as they drop into the frame.

  3. Introduce Objects: Offer your child a variety of small objects that can fit through the slot, including colorful plastic circles. For a twist, include some magnetic circles.

  4. Explore Magnetism: Provide a magnetic wand for your child to move the magnetic circles around inside the frame. This adds an extra layer of sensory exploration and introduces a basic concept of magnetism.

  5. Retrieve Objects: To retrieve the posted objects, either turn the frame upside down and shake the contents out or remove the tape and take out the inserts.

Skills At Play

Fine Motor Skills

The small slot offer an excellent challenge for fine motor control, helping to develop the muscles needed for tasks like grasping, reaching, and manipulating objects.

Hand-Eye Coordination

Posting and retrieving objects helps improve hand-eye coordination as children align and drop objects through the slot.

Concentration

This activity promotes concentration as children focus on posting each object through the slot and moving the magnetic pieces around.
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