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5 Must-Have OT Tools for Kids That Make Therapy Fun (and Actually Work!)

Hi, I’m Elli — a pediatric and adult occupational therapist passionate about helping people live easier, more functional lives. Inspired by my own family and real experience in school and home settings, I’ve seen firsthand how the right tools can turn a frustrating task into an empowering one. In this post, I’m sharing a few of my favorite fine motor and sensory tools I’ve used with kids — especially those who need a little extra support to focus, build strength, or feel regulated. These are all available on Amazon and make great additions to your home, classroom, or therapy room.

5/20/20243 min read

🧩 1. Therapy Putty

Therapy putty is one of the most versatile tools in my OT kit, and it’s always a hit with kids. Whether I’m working with preschoolers developing hand strength or older students who need a sensory break, therapy putty has a place in almost every session.

Why I love it:
Therapy putty helps build the small muscles in the hands (called intrinsic hand muscles), which are essential for tasks like writing, cutting, buttoning, and even using utensils. I’ve used it to help children with low tone, poor grip strength, and motor planning challenges.

But what really makes it magical is how much fun it can be. I love hiding tiny objects inside the putty — like beads, coins, or small erasers — and having kids pull them out using a pincer grasp. It’s a fantastic way to work on fine motor control without it feeling like “work.”

How I use it in sessions:

Warm-up before handwriting or keyboarding
Sensory breaks for kids who seek tactile input
Strengthening activities for children with weak hand muscles
Regulating tool for anxious or overstimulated kids

This is one of those tools I always recommend to parents because it’s inexpensive, lasts a long time, and can be used in so many different ways.

👉 My favorite one on amazon! https://amzn.to/4kwDUSk

✍️ 2. Pencil Grips

There’s no one-size-fits-all for pencil grips, but trying a variety can really help kids develop more efficient writing patterns.

Why I love it: They’re low-cost, easy to use at home or school, and promote better hand positioning without making writing feel like a chore.

https://amzn.to/3SN01bh

🎯 3. Pop Tubes

These colorful sensory tubes are great for fidgeting, stretching, and building bilateral coordination.

Why I love it: They provide great auditory feedback, are nearly indestructible, and can even be used in movement games or obstacle courses.

https://amzn.to/4jdiWa3

✂️ 4. Loop Scissors

For kids with hand weakness or difficulty using standard scissors, loop scissors can be a game changer.

Why I love them: The spring-back motion makes cutting easier and less frustrating, especially for younger children or those with fine motor delays.

https://amzn.to/3Sk2zOa

💬 Final Thoughts:

These tools are small but mighty — and they’ve made a big difference in the lives of the kids I work with. Whether you're a fellow therapist, a parent, or an educator, I hope this list helps make your job just a little bit easier.

If you try any of these out, I’d love to hear what works for you. And be sure to follow me on Pinterest or TikTok for more easy OT tips and Amazon finds!

🔒 Affiliate Disclosure:

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my content and small business!

🪑 5. Wiggle Seat Cushion

Perfect for wiggly kiddos! These cushions help kids stay seated and focused during table tasks.

Why I love it: It offers subtle movement input and can improve posture and attention — ideal for homework or classroom seating.

My favorite wiggle chair! https://amzn.to/44RMfLU