Top
FREE LIFE SKILLS SCOPE & SEQUENCE
BLOG: Adaptive Tool for Playing Cards Using Pool Noodles

Pool Noodle Hack – Adaptive Tool for Playing Cards

Do you find it hard to play card games with your students because they struggle with holding their cards without showing everyone their cards? Bookmark this idea for ESY and Fun Fridays!  Try this inexpensive & easy pool noodle hack!

Supplies:

BLOG: Adaptive Tool for Playing Cards Using Pool Noodles

All you need is a pool noodle, cutting board, and a serrated knife!  Pool noodles are from Dollar Tree (and the UNO go game is too!).   I was able to cut through the pool noodle using a non-serrated knife, but I found that the serrated knife was much easier. As always, use caution when cutting with a knife!

Hack #1

BLOG: Adaptive Tool for Playing Cards Using Pool Noodles

I just eyeballed it, but you’ll place the knife about 1.5-2inches from the end of the pool noodle and cut.  If it is too thin or thick, it may be too hard for the individual to hold.

BLOG: Adaptive Tool for Playing Cards Using Pool Noodles

Slice a slit about a little past halfway through the piece of pool noodle you just cut off.  This is where the cards will sit.

BLOG: Adaptive Tool for Playing Cards Using Pool Noodles

Place the cards into the slit and begin playing!

Hack #2

BLOG: Adaptive Tool for Playing Cards Using Pool Noodles

I just eyeballed it once again, but you’ll place the knife a minimum of 5 inches from the end of the pool noodle and cut.  The longer the noodle piece is, the more cards it will hold – so think about what games you intend to use this variation with and it will help determine how big you cut the piece.

BLOG: Adaptive Tool for Playing Cards Using Pool Noodles

Cut the piece you just cut off in half all the way through.

BLOG: Adaptive Tool for Playing Cards Using Pool Noodles

Take one of the half pieces and cut a slit in the center.  Make sure to leave a little unsliced on each end so that the pieces stay together (if you cut too much of a slit it might break apart easily).

BLOG: Adaptive Tool for Playing Cards Using Pool Noodles

Place the cards into the slit and begin playing!  This version is great for playing games that require holding more cards, or for individuals that present more challenging fine motor difficulties when holding objects.

Video Tutorial

Click the post below to see a How To video tutorial.

You Might Also Enjoy Reading:

BLOG: What to teach during ESY

Thanks for reading!

Fiona Signature

Product Reviews

from special educators