Pipe Cleaner Game

Remember those containers we decorated?  We can use one of them for a fun and challenging pipe cleaner game.  I was initially worried that this would be too advanced for a 16-mth-old or that I at least needed to make the holes larger.  Little Man took right to it, though.  It's a great way to flex his fine motor skills.

Need: recycled container, pipe cleaners, basic tools.

This is simple so directions may not be necessary, but for clarity, here goes:

I used an oatmeal container with a plastic pop-on lid.  I covered it with a fun travel fabric. You can find directions here.  Now we just need to make some holes in the lid for the pipe cleaners.  Remove the lid and use a Phillips screwdriver to drive in 4 holes.  Be sure to go from the top pushing down.

Give the screwdriver a good twist to make sure the hole is nice and established.  Remove the tool and use scissors to trim away the sharp edges just pushed down.

The lid is done, put it back on.  Cut pipe cleaners in half so they will fit inside the container.  You're done!  You have a bright, fun toy that will challenge your little one.

Little Man brings this game to me about once a day.   I empty some of the pipe cleaners and encourage him as he works.  

Craft time: 5 minutes

Play time: 5 minutes per game

Cost: $2 for pipe cleaners, recycled container

Age: 16 mths