Hands & independence

Squeeze and transfer

Move and squeeze one dry one-piece silicone toddler toy between two floor spots.

5 minutes

What you'll need

One-piece soft silicone squeeze toy labelled suitable for children under 3 · Two flat floor markers

Before you start

Can grasp and release a large object

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

How to play

  1. Place both flat markers on a clear dry floor.
  2. Show one slow squeeze.
  3. Let your child move and squeeze the toy.
Make it easier

Use one marker and squeeze the toy together.

Standard

Move and squeeze one dry one-piece silicone toddler toy between two floor spots.

Extend it

Move the toy between markers and compare squeezed and released shapes.

What you might notice

Whole-hand strength and two-handed control.

Keep it safe

Use no household sponge, bowl or water. Inspect the one-piece under-3 silicone toy for tears, stay within arm's reach on a dry floor, stop mouthing or throwing, then clean, dry and store it.

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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