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Reach for the toy

Time: 10 min Checked: 10 August 2026 Cerebral palsy

Goal

Develop purposeful grasping, hand coordination and motivation to move.

What you need

3–4 favorite toys of different sizes · A stable surface (table, floor)

Important:Use positions recommended by your rehabilitation specialist. With increased muscle tone, don't force arm extension.

How to do it

  1. Seat or lay your child in a comfortable, familiar position.
  2. Place a toy just beyond the outstretched hand.
  3. Invite them to take it: 'Get the teddy!' — wait 5–10 seconds.
  4. If it's hard — move it closer or help, finishing the movement with the child's hand.
  5. Alternate sides: right, then left.
  6. Praise any attempt, not just success.
How to know it worked:The child reaches for the object on their own or with little help, grasping it for at least a few seconds.

Source: Everyday therapy and purposeful reach principles for CP; Cerebral Palsy Foundation resources