Official distributor of Topbright

The wooden “Worms in an Apple” threading toy is designed for children aged 18 months and over. The aim is to place the worms in the appropriate holes in the apple or thread the worm on a string through them. Both activities can be done freely or by following the included pattern cards. This type of play primarily develops:

• fine motor skills, particularly precision of movement, dexterity, pressure control, an appropriate grip on objects of different sizes and the ability to manipulate objects to achieve a specific goal
• hand–eye coordination: making hand and finger movements guided by sight
• tactile perception: the threading toy’s individual parts are made from different materials (wood, plastic, fabric and string), stimulating the sense of touch
• the ability to distinguish and name colours
• visual perception: when children need to reproduce the arrangement of worms shown on the cards in terms of their colours or positions
• planning the sequence of movements needed to achieve a goal: to place the worms in the apple according to a pattern, children need to plan the order in which to attach them to produce the arrangement shown
• concentration and attention

The threading toy also develops children’s creativity and imagination as they create their own combinations and patterns. It encourages calm and focus. When the arrangement of worms in the apple does not match the card, children practise problem-solving and effective action. Achieving the intended result brings positive emotions and the joy of success.

The way the toy is made is an undeniable advantage. The use of wood makes it safe, sturdy, resistant to damage and very attractive. The size of all the pieces (the apple and the worms) makes them easy to grasp, so both younger children developing typically and children with physical disabilities can play with the toy easily.

The “Worms in an Apple” threading toy is an engaging toy that supports motor and cognitive development in younger children, as well as a therapeutic aid for early intervention and hand therapy practices. It is also a great alternative to screens, for example when travelling or waiting to see a doctor.