Stretchy Band Shapes

If you want to include a little learning in your gross motor play, try making (and playing with) some of these Stretchy Bands.  They are super easy to make and can be used for a variety of purposes!  I found the idea for using them to make shapes from This Mama Makes Stuff and it has been a big hit (with Big Brother, anyway…Little Brother is being extremely defiant this week as we’re potty training and wants absolutely NOTHING to do with ANYTHING I suggest).

Here’s what you’ll need to make 3 bands:  1/3 yard of swimsuit material (mine was 82% Nylon and 18% Spandex), and a sewing machine (or a needle and thread to sew by hand).

1.  Lay your material out.  As you can see, it rolls at the edges…so it’s a little tricky to get the edges to stay put.

 2.  Cut your pieces.  I made one 4-inch band and two bands that were 5-inches.  A rotary cutter, mat, & acrylic ruler work wonders for holding down those stubborn edges.

 All cut and ready to be sewn!

3.  Sew the 2 ends together (to form a loop of fabric).

 I sewed the ends twice (just for extra strength–with the way things get treated around my house, things have to be TOUGH around here).

 All done!  Let your little one start making shapes!

Rectangle (almost a square)

Triangle (not sure what this face is about)

 Diamond / Rhombus

Supposed to be a “skinny rectangle” but looks a little more like a trapezoid

Also great for Little Brother rides!