Tactile Matching Game

So, I’ve been kinda crazy about sandpaper lately. I have three packs of different grits and I’m trying to use them all up so as you probably already guessed…this is the first in a series of about four different sandpaper projects I’ll be bring to Tried & True. Yay sandpaper!

Just so you know, I’m by no means well-versed in the Montessori method but I like to read and research (Thank you, History major) so I try to interject little bits of Maria Montessori into our everyday life where I can. Luckily a lot of the materials are totally DIY-able and there are tons of amazing bloggers who are willing to share their knowledge!

I should disclose, however, that I sorta kinda missed the boat on Jack (4 years) and this Tactile Matching Game. Waaaaay too easy for him. Maybe I should use it as part of a whole tactile series, going from one activity to another? I think he’d really enjoy something a little more difficult like a Feel & Find game. At least I still have Max to use the Tactile Matching Game!

Tactile Matching Game

Materials:
– sandpaper (at least three different grits)
– small cardboard/wood shapes
– craft glue

Instructions:

1. Gather your materials. I’m reusing some pressed cardboard pieces from a game that we, unfortunately, lost some of the matching body parts. You can use any shape as long as they all match identically. You can also check out your local hobby store for a package of unfinished wood pieces if you don’t have anything at home to recycle.

2. Trace two of each shape to the back of the sandpaper. Cut.

3. Use an extra piece of sandpaper to roughen up the surface and to remove any extra paper from along the edge (so that it doesn’t show from under the sandpaper).

4. Evenly spread a thin layer of glue over the surface of the shape and affix sandpaper. Press down firmly, wiping away any extra glue that may have been squeezed out. Allow to dry completely under a heavy object or book.

5. To play, have the child wash his hands first (helps make the pads more sensitive) and introduce each of the different grit boards (more rough, rough, least rough) and their matching pair. Next have the child match them without a blindfold. Now, blindfold his eyes and have him match them just by using his sense of touch. Hope your kiddos enjoy the game!