Category: The Fine Motor Play Menu

Tulip Color Match: A Fine Motor Play Menu Favorite

Just Like GRAMMY & POPPOP's learning library fine motor

The “Why” Behind the Play

“Spring is such a beautiful time for growth—not just in the garden, but in our little ones’ development! I designed this Tulip Color Match for our classroom because it targets finger isolation and pincer strength. When your child squeezes that clothespin, they are exercising the exact same muscles they will eventually use to hold a pencil, use scissors, and tie their own shoes. It’s quiet, focused, and oh-so-satisfying for those tiny hands!”

— ^Grammy Kim

Inside Your Kit

You can make this at home or pick it up from our bin.

This includes:

  • 3 Laminated Tulip Cards

  • Matching Pom-Pom “Petal” Clips (Standard or mini clothespins with soft pom-poms attached)

How to Play

  1. The Match: Lay the tulip cards flat on the table. Have your child identify the color of each tulip.

  2. The Squeeze: Show them how to “pinch” the clip to open the “mouth.”

  3. The Goal: Clip the matching pom-pom onto the top of the tulip card to complete the flower.

  4. The Challenge: shhhhh, just standby and watch. It’s ok if they miss… let them learn how to work the clip or guide them if they ask.

Print & Make: The DIY Version

You can create your own Tulip Match at home with a few simple supplies. 

1. Download the Printable: Click Here to Download the Tulip Cards (PDF)

2. What You’ll Need:

  • Cardstock or heavy paper (for the cards)

  • Clothespins (standard or mini size)

  • Pom-poms (in red, yellow, blue, green, and pink)

  • Hot glue gun (for the grownups to use!)

  • Laminator (optional) (Grammy Tip: You can also use clear packing tape!)

Glue the pom poms to the tips of the clothes pins. Laminate the cardstock or paper. Cut into 3 separate cards on the dotted lines.

Neighborly Pick-Up (Pewaukee/Lake Country)

Would you like a physical kit? PopPop Matt and I have a limited number of these sets—laminated and ready for play—for our local neighbors.

  • Step 1: Send me a Direct Message (DM) or email.

  • Step 2: I’ll package one up and put your name on it.

  • Step 3: Swing by our Neighborly Pick-Up Bin at your convenience for a safe, easy handoff!

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