Next Step Learning Box

Homeschooling Learning Materials

Shape flashcards (circle, diamond, square, heart, etc.) – for shape and color recognition, matching, and visual memory.

Shape match board with foam pieces – for cognitive matching, fine motor, and visual perception.

Number tracing cards (1–3) – for number and color recognition and pre-writing practice.

Alphabet tracing sheets – for letter recognition and handwriting preparation.

Pre-writing worksheets (stars, hearts, triangles, circles, squares) – for tracing, pattern following, and pencil control.

Fine Motor & Therapy Tools

Zipper band, button band, and button board - for fine motor skills and to practice zipping and buttoning for independent dressing skills.

Therapy rubber band (blue) – to strengthen fingers and hands, encourage bilateral coordination and gross motor skills and exercises.

Pop tube – for auditory feedback, strengthening, bilateral coordination, and more. Fine motor play (pushing/pulling, twisting).

Playdough – for sensory play, strengthening small hand muscles, creativity, and calming tactile input.

Cognitive, Speech & Language Tools

Memory puzzle cube – for memory, matching, and problem-solving skills.

Learning loop phone (green) – supports speech development and auditory feedback by allowing the child to hear their own voice clearly.

Small fruit & vegetable manipulatives with bowl and spoon – for language building (naming, categorizing, role play) and exercises that encourage independent eating skills.

Body parts flashcards – for vocabulary development, comprehension, and speech practice.

Purpose:

This box combines academic learning (letters, numbers, shapes) with therapy-based fine motor, speech, language, and daily living skills practice. It’s designed for homeschool use with special needs learners to make learning hands-on, engaging, and supportive of real-life independence.

As a homeschooling mother of a child with special needs, I created this box to support my son at his current developmental stage. It includes activities and guidance gathered from our personal journey, as well as insights and tips from qualified occupational and speech therapists. I chose to make this box available for families who are walking through a similar journey with special needs. This box is intended to assist parents with straightforward activities to do at home. Please consult with your therapist for any specific needs your child may have. We are happy to customize a box tailored to your child's developmental stage, in collaboration with your therapist. Feel free to contact us for referrals if you would like some advice.

Bloom and Balance works hand in hand with a Qualified and registered Kinderkineticist, NILD educational therapist and OT.