Handbag Sorting (Toolbox for men)

This simple sorting activity can be adapted for different interests and abilities.

The example provided is a handbag sorting activity for the ladies. For men, use a toolbox!

Object:

• Improve dexterity (grasping objects)
• Practice decision-making

Materials:

• A handbag, old-fashioned if possible.
• Various items such as compact powder, brush, money purse, small mirror, lipstick, cloth handkerchief, small bottle of perfume, sunglasses, bunch of keys. You can use anything that belongs in a handbag. Have at least 6 items.
• Look for items that do not belong in a handbag such as a screwdriver, garden hose nozzle, a sock, a small bowl, a cat collar. Have at least 6 items that should not belong.
• A box to hold all items before the correct items are placed into the bag.
• Print out the supplied BELONG and DOES NOT BELONG labels and cut out.

Instructions:

• Show your resident the handbag and explain that you have some items that need to be put inside it. Ask if they would like to help you.
• Place the labels in from of the resident and explain what they mean.
• Put the box with all the mixed up items on their good side.
• Start by picking one item and asking: ‘Does it belong in the handbag?’ wait for an answer and then point to the right label.
• Repeat the process with every item.