Basting

Basting work is designed to strengthen three finger grip and hand eye coordination as the child transfers water from one container to the next without dripping the water. One cup is filled to designated line, and one is empty. The child watches the water travel up the baster if done properly, and slowly transfers the water, cleaning up any drips of water before placing the activity back on the shelf. It’s important to focus on the process of empty to full which strengthens the child’s visual sense. Extensions of this activity include the One Drop Work, and working with liquid measuring.

Points of Interest

• Hearing the gurgling noise in the baster as water is suctioned in.
• Seeing the water traveling up and down the baster.
• Seeing the water disappear out of the bowl.
• Letting the last drip drop.

Control of Error

• Water no being sucked up by the baster.
• Any spills in the work area.
• Water not filling the bowl to the water line.
• Squeezing the baster under water so that bubbles form.
• Baster touching the bottom of the bowl preventing any water from being sucked up.

Direct Aims

• To develop concentration.
• To develop hand eye control.
• To develop sequence of order.
• To develop independence.

Indirect Aims

• Preparation for writing.

Aditional Exercises

• Using colored water.
• Using a nose syringe for a baster.
• Using an eye dropped for a baster.

Extensions

• Using a squeeze tight bottle.
• Getting toothpaste or cleanser out of a tube.
• Feeling the air in a bicycle tire.