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This simple rattle that can be pulled along behind your tot will keep him entertained for hours. If your child has only just started walking, he’ll be encouraged to do so as his rattle makes fascinating sounds dragging along behind him.
Additionally, determining the path of the toy dragging behind him will help teach him coordination. Playing with the toy while he toddles around the house will encourage gross motor skills, while the sounds of the bells and buttons rattling in the bottles challenge his hearing. Helping you make the rattle enhances fine motor skills.
You will do most of the preparation for this activity, since your child will not be able to make the toy by himself. You can, however, include him by letting him throw the pompoms and bells into the bottles. You can also make a couple of rattles with different “fillings”. Buttons and bright beads are perfect items for a rattle.
Difficulty rating: **
Time to prepare: **
Cleaning up: *
Activity time: less than an hour
You need:
- 2 empty plastic cooldrink bottles (make sure the labels come off easily so you’re left with a see-through bottle)
- 2 long pieces of thick ribbon (let your tot choose a colour)
- Small copper bells
- Store-bought pompoms
Carefully make a small hole in the lid of each of the bottles with a nail. Thread the ribbon through the lid and secure it with a knot on the inside of the lid. Throw equal amounts of bells and pompoms in the bottle and screw the lid back on. Make sure it’s nice and tight. Tie the two pieces of ribbon together and you have an entertaining pull toy.
Inspiration for this toy came from toddlertoddler.com.
