This activity has been revised and was originally created by Kathy Heydt and Monica Allon and published in the Perkins Activity and Resource Guide (1st edition, 1992). The second edition is available for purchase.
This fine-motor activity has students practice bilateral hand use (both hands alternately doing the same thing), wrist extension, upper extremity strength and range of motion. It is designed to improve any activity that requires both hands to do the same thing (e.g. rolling dough for cooking) or alternating hand movements. Lessons include Orientation and Mobility and Independent Living.
Plastic ball
Have the student sit in front of a wall with her fingertips on the ball. Have the student “walk” (push) the ball up the wall, using one hand after the other.
Hint: Do not use a ball that is too heavy for the student, and guard against falling (if she has balance issues).