Obstacle reach challenge
6–12 monthsSuccess MindsetMaterials: Small pillow or soft cloth
Favorite toy
Place a soft barrier like a small pillow between your child and a desired toy. Let them figure out how to move it or reach around it. This simple problem requires persistence. Your child will try different approaches. Some won't work at first. That's exactly the learning you want. Problem solving through trial and error builds grit.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Place a soft barrier like a small pillow between your child and a desired toy. Let them figure out how to move it or reach around it. This simple problem requires persistence. Your child will try different approaches. Some won't work at first. That's exactly the learning you want. Problem solving through trial and error builds grit.
Why It Works
This activity targets beginning problem-solving abilities appropriate for this age. Research demonstrates that perseverance of effort showed stronger correlations with academic achievement than other factors across multiple studies (Duckworth et al., 2007). By providing challenges that require multiple attempts and supporting sustained effort, you're developing the aspect of grit most linked to positive outcomes (Datu et al., 2016).
Tips for Parents
Start with small, easy obstacles. Build difficulty gradually over time.
Give them time to think and try. Resist jumping in too quickly.
Celebrate creative solutions. There's often more than one way to succeed.
Materials Needed
Small pillow or soft cloth
Favorite toy
Learning Methods
Movement-Based LearningResponsive Interaction
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