-->

Children learn through play. As an occupational therapist who works with children and youth, I use games and toys almost every day to help develop important cognitive, visual perceptual, motor, sensory, social, play and leisure skills. While many different types of activities can be used in therapy, this blog focuses on off-the-shelf games and toys that are accessible to most. Whether you are a therapist, parent, teacher, or a game lover like me, I hope you discover something useful while you are here. Learn a different way to play a game you already own or discover a new game for your next family game night. Either way, just go play. It's good for you!

The OT Magazine named The Playful Otter one of the Top 5 Pediatric OT Blogs.


Jul 22, 2016

Wikki Stix Alphabet


Reinforce letter formation with reusable Wikki Stix.


Wikki Stix are simply pieces of knitting yarn dipped in food-grade wax. They are bendable and can be shaped however you like. They adhere to paper and most smooth surfaces with just fingertip pressure. There are 36 9" Stix in six different colors.

This set includes one card for each letter of the alphabet and one blank card that says "Can you make the first letter of your name?", 27 7" cards in all. Each letter (lower case and upper case) shows arrows for the sequence that you would make the strokes to write the letter. Following the arrows, press the Wikki Stix right on top of each letter to reinforce writing.

There is also a small picture made of Wikki Stix on each card (see the butterfly above). You can press Wikki Stix over the picture or make a bigger version on another surface. These pictures, however, can be quite detailed compared to the letters and you may need to cut some of the stix to get smaller pieces. Once you are done, the Wikki Stix peel off easily and can be used over and over. 

Wikki Stix sets come in different themes including Christmas, Basic Shapes, and Numbers and Counting. These are very similar to Bendaroos, which come with more complicated pattern cards.

I always feel like washing my hands after I have used these as they do leave a waxy feel behind.

Try this:
  • Make the letter by pressing the Wikki Stix on top of the card. Next, make the letter by looking at the card and pressing the Wikki Stix next to the card. Finally, use the Wikki Stix to make the letter without looking at the card. 
  • After practicing making the big letter on the card, use half Stix and make a smaller version.
  • Gather the cards in alphabet order before putting back into the box when you are done.

  • Work on manual dexterity, coordinated use of both hands, visual closure, visual discrimination, spatial relations, letter formation and recognition, executive functioning skills, process skills, play and leisure exploration and participation
In the box: 27 7inch squares, 36 9inch Wikki Stix
Ages 3+

If you are interested in purchasing this item or just want more information, click on the image below.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Thank you for taking the time to comment.