I’ve been wanting to give my kids a peg board for a long time. But I thought the pegs would need to be bolts, which seemed like terrible toys, and I wasn’t looking forward to wandering around a hardware store looking for alternatives. Plus, the peg boards I’d seen used rubber bands, and I was pretty sure my kids would learn how to snap each other hard enough to leave welts by the end of the first day. As it turns out, putting this together probably took less than 30 minutes, cost like $15, is totally safe, and I think I love it more than my kids. Plus, it stores under the couch. Awesome.
The peg board was hard to find with the directions from the guy at the door of the store, but the people who work in the lumber side of the store knew exactly what it was, where it was, and how to connect me with it. Then, someone showed me these awesome wooden pegs. They’re the 1/4″ size, and they are easy enough to slide in and out that both my little ones can put the pegs anywhere they want. (Peg board was $6.48 and the pegs were $2-something I think)
Then I ran to JoAnn’s and got the fabric loops that we all used to make pot holders on a plastic loom. Remember that? We all did that weird craft, even though no one on earth has ever actually needed MORE potholders, and the weird fabric would probably have melted if used. But they’re perfect for this because they don’t snap like rubber bands, and can’t possibly leave a welt on someone. The box does identify them as a choking hazard though, so maybe feed your kid before hand and limit how many you let your kid shove down her throat. Okay? Good. (These were about $6)
So when we get the board out, the girls spend the first 5 minutes methodically putting each peg in the perfect spot. Then they look everywhere to be sure they haven’t missed any pegs, and eventually I show them the fabric bands. Which are bracelets and grass and trees and flowers and playgrounds and homes and sharks and monsters. (So far.) Guys, my kids even like putting all this away. This activity is THE BEST! The tactile sensations and fine motor skills are enthralling and getting to stuff it all under the couch just makes their little days.
Getting time to sip my coffee on the couch while the kids play peacefully on the floor? That makes MY day. I hope this activity makes your day too.
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