TinyStepper
Toddler in a bubbly bathtub pouring water through a funnel toy

Ribbon Pull Box

Pull scarves and ribbons through holes cut in a cardboard box.

Activity details

12m–2y7 minslowindoorCardboard BoxesScarves or FabricString or Yarn

Instructions

Get ready
  • Cut 4–5 holes in the sides of a sturdy cardboard box
  • Thread scarves, ribbons, or fabric strips through the holes
  1. Cut 4–5 holes in the sides of a sturdy cardboard box
  2. Thread scarves, ribbons, or fabric strips through the holes
  3. Tie a knot on the inside so they don’t pull all the way through
  4. Place the box on the floor in front of your child
  5. Show them how to pull a scarf through: ‘Look what comes out!’
  6. Let them pull each one at their own pace
  7. Stuff them back through for another round
  8. Name the colours and textures as they pull: ‘Silky blue one!’

Parent tip

Set out cardboard boxes and scarves or fabric before inviting your toddler in so the first minute feels smooth.

Toddler sitting back from a sensory tray looking calm and satisfied after focused play

What success looks like

Watch for focused exploration — fingers digging in, pouring back and forth, or sorting by feel. Even a few minutes of this builds concentration.

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.

Why it helps

The NHS Best Start in Life programme recommends sensory play as a valuable way for toddlers to explore the world, noting that it supports language development, cognitive growth and fine motor skills. 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.

Want to try another?

Ice Cube Tray Filling

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