Best for this moment
for calmer, lower-pressure moments, especially when you need an indoor option.
Ribbon Pull Box
At a glance: Pull scarves and ribbons through holes cut in a cardboard box. A 7-minute, low-energy indoor activity for ages 12m–2y.
Cut small holes in the sides of a cardboard box and thread scarves, ribbons, or fabric strips through them. Your toddler pulls the fabric through, discovering that a tug produces a satisfying stream of colour. This simple cause-and-effect toy keeps 12–24 month olds entertained far longer than you’d expect, and it’s brilliant for developing the hand-over-hand pulling motion that strengthens shoulders and arms.
Parent tip
Set out cardboard boxes and scarves or fabric before inviting your toddler in so the first minute feels smooth.
What success looks like
A good outcome is a few minutes of engaged play, some back-and-forth with you, and a small sign of progress in cognitive skills.
More help for this situation
Rainy-day indoor energy
Rainy day
When everyone is stuck inside, choose movement-heavy play that burns energy without chaos.
Try Pillow Path AdventureInstructions
- Cut 4–5 holes in the sides of a sturdy cardboard box
- Thread scarves, ribbons, or fabric strips through the holes
- Tie a knot on the inside so they don’t pull all the way through
- Place the box on the floor in front of your child
- Show them how to pull a scarf through: ‘Look what comes out!’
- Let them pull each one at their own pace
- Stuff them back through for another round
- Name the colours and textures as they pull: ‘Silky blue one!’
Why it helps
The hand-over-hand pulling motion strengthens shoulder and arm muscles needed for throwing and catching later. Grasping different fabric textures stimulates sensory development, while the cause-and-effect of pulling produces reward feedback that builds persistence.
Variations
- Use different textures — silk, cotton, felt — so each pull feels different.
- Tie a small toy to the end of a ribbon as a surprise reveal.
- Thread ribbons through a colander instead for smaller holes and more challenge.
Safety tips
- Cut holes large enough that fingers won’t get stuck.
- Keep ribbons short enough that they can’t wrap around your child’s neck.
- Supervise to ensure scarves and fabric aren’t mouthed and swallowed.
When to pause and seek extra support
Stop if your child becomes distressed, unsafe, or consistently frustrated by the activity. If play, behaviour, or development worries keep showing up across settings, check in with a qualified professional.
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