In a pinch, Silly Putty is a great substitute...

I have been an occupational therapist for over 10 years and I have used a lot of therapeutic putty in days.  Theraputty is a resistive dough that is used to increase hand strength and overall function.  There are many brands like Cando and FEI.   But when used in conjunction with play based activities, the students get a work out without really knowing it.

Therapeutic putty will range in price and quality.  And for the most part, it is a staple in most areas of practice.  But as a parent and therapist, it's nice to have quick and easy options to share with others or take on the go.  That is why I always keep around Silly Putty.

Silly Putty now comes in a variety of colors and has the resistance level similar to that of firm therapeutic putty.  It's well know little egg case makes it perfect to throw in the pocket book or diaper bag to keep little hands busy while you are waiting for appointments or food to be delivered.

But you can diversify its use and support your child's education by adding random things.  I have found alphabet beads at Five Below that you can use to sort, spell, match, pattern, identify letter sounds, whatever your child needs to work on.

Put a twist on a favorite game like Hi Ho Cherry O! by hiding the cherries in the Silly Putty, spin the wheel and take them in and out of the putty as you count your way to 10 cherries out of the tree.

There are a bunch of ways you can add to an activity with this 70 year old classic.  Taking a minute to step outside of the box can bring new life to activities and increase engagement with you, your child or your clients.  And for a whopping $1 at most stores, it doesn't break the bank.