Fine Motor Skills Color Recognition Game

You don't need to spend a lot to create activities for fine motor skills for kids. This Fine Motor Skills Color Recognition Game is proof of that. You just need an empty and clean whipped topping container and some colored straws.

This color recognition game uses simple materials and turns an ordinary afternoon into a hands-on learning adventure! It’s a great activity for toddlers and preschoolers. My favorite part? It’s mess-free, screen-free, and can be used again and again.

Jump to:

• Fine Motor Skills Ideas For Preschoolers
• Supplies for Fine Motor Game
• How to Make Fine Motor Skills Color Recognition Game
• Benefits of This Fine Motor Activity
• Tips for Color Recognition Game
• FAQs for Color Drop Game

Fine Motor Skills Ideas For Preschoolers

Fine motor skills activities are not only important for development, they’re also a lot of fun! These hands-on tasks help strengthen little fingers, improve hand-eye coordination, and build the muscle control needed for writing, cutting, and everyday tasks. Here are some your kids will love:

• Sensory Rainbow with Straws               
• Fine Motor Straw Necklace
• Fruit Loop Towers
• Fine Motor Threading Activity
• Spider Web Fine Motor Activity

Supplies for Fine Motor Game

• Colorful straws – You'll want a variety of colors so kids can easily match them to the holes. You can cut them into smaller pieces for more of a fine motor challenge.
• Container (I used a frozen whipped topping container that I cleaned) – Any plastic container with a lid works! Just make sure it’s clean and sturdy enough to handle being played with.
• Drill (to make holes) – Grown-up job alert! Use a drill (or a sharp tool) to poke holes in the lid. You'll need one for each color of straw you plan to use. Keep the holes just big enough for the straws to fit snugly.
• Colorful permanent markers – These are used to color-code the holes, helping kids to know where each straw belongs.
• Decorations for container (optional) – Stickers can add a personal touch and make the game even more fun!

PEEKOAL 8 Pack Assorted Colors Permanent Markers, Fine Tip Colored100 Pcs Jumbo Smoothie Straws,Colorful Disposable Wide-mouthed Large Straw.VeZee 48oz Disposable Black Meal Prep/Bento Box with Clear DomeLearning Resources Spike The Fine Motor Hedgehog - Toddler Montessori

 

How to Make Fine Motor Skills Color Recognition Game

1. Drill holes – In the lid of your container, make one hole for each color you’re using. This is an adult job!

If you don't want to do anything else, you can stop here.  This alone makes a great game for younger kids who are doing fine motor work while having fun dropping straws.  My toddler loved this activity without the color matching.

2. Color around each hole – Use a permanent marker that matches one of your straws to outline each hole.

I decided to cover up the part of the container that had the writing on it, so I used some address labels for that.  Then I decorated it with some permanent markers and some scrapbook letters.

3. Cut straws – Snip them into shorter pieces (about 2–3 inches), which are perfect for little hands to grip.

4. Match the colored straws – Show your child how to match the straw to the correct hole and push it through.

5. Store for next time – Keep all the straws inside the container for quick clean-up and easy reuse.

When my daughter was done she wanted to open the container to see where her straws went.  She was happy to discover that they were all inside.

Benefits of This Fine Motor Activity

• Builds fine motor strength and coordination
• Reinforces color recognition and matching
• Encourages independent problem solving
• Perfect for quiet time or busy boxes
• Frugal activity for kids

FAQs for Color Drop Game

This simple color recognition activity is such a fun way to sneak in learning while your little one plays. It’s easy to set up, great for building fine motor skills, and keeps kids engaged with colorful, hands-on fun.