Hands & independence

Shape posting toy

Post large rigid shapes through a purpose-made wide opening.

8 minutes

What you'll need

Purpose-made posting toy labelled suitable for children under 3 · Large rigid one-piece posting shapes

Before you start

Can grasp and release a large object

Best fit: indoors · calm energy · low caregiver effort · low mess

How to play

  1. Show how one rigid shape turns to fit.
  2. Offer another shape.
  3. Open the purpose-made retrieval side together and restart.
Make it easier

Use the widest opening with the shape already aligned.

Standard

Post large rigid shapes through a purpose-made wide opening.

Extend it

Use a second opening only if the toy is designed to be rotated safely.

What you might notice

Wrist rotation and adjustment after a failed attempt.

Keep it safe

Use no cardboard, cut slot, tape or improvised box. Inspect the under-3 posting toy and rigid shapes, stay within arm's reach, stop mouthing or finger trapping, and count and store every piece.

Why it may be useful

This everyday task offers practice with hand control, two-handed coordination and growing independence.

practice guidance

Provides practice opportunities; it is not a therapy or assessment of motor development.

Raising Children Network (2025) — Toddler play: ideas, games and activities

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