Patent Application
20150279229
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to training devices, and particularly to a training device for assisting children in learning the proper handling and use of tools such as pencils, crayon, pens, forks, knives and similar hand-held implements.
2. Description of the Related Art
Teaching a toddler the correct finger placements for gripping an implement such as a pencil, crayon, fork or the like is important in mastering the use of the particular implement, Proper use of the implement will bolster self-confidence and encourage continued use, thus possibly enhancing intellectual curiosity and social skills. Consistency based on muscle memory is a major problem in teaching the above-mentioned finger placement in that the fingers and thumb should be positioned at approximately the same place on the implement at each use. Consistent finger placement positioning is a learned skill that is developed over time by repeated practice. A device that would speed up the learning curve while instilling confidence in the toddler would be a welcome developmental tool in the art. Thus, a finger placement training device solving the aforementioned problem is desired.
The finger placement training device is a tool for assisting a child in learning to use handheld implements that require proper finger placement. Implements such as pencils, crayons, pens, forks, spoons and the like are items that a child must learn to use properly. The invention comprises a tube preferably having perforations therethrough. The tube is mounted on the shaft of the implement. Finger placement devices are removably mounted on the tube in pre-determined locations. Each finger placement device includes an adjustable ring or loop adapted to receive therein a finger or thumb. The location of each finger placement device and the adjustment of the ring are dependent on the type of implement to be used. It has been determined that a maximum of three rings mounted on the tube is sufficient to teach proper finger placement for substantially all implements.
Accordingly, the finger placement training device enables a child to learn proper finger positioning when using certain implements. In addition to assisting children, the finger placement device may also be of aid to the elderly, individuals who may be recovering from an injury to the hand, or medically-impaired individuals recovering from arthritis, partial paralysis, etc. As contemplated, the device may be manufactured in different sizes to accommodate use on a variety of implements. The device may be manufactured from suitable non-toxic and reasonably rugged materials and is applicable for use by either the right or left hand.
These and other features of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following specification and drawings
Similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the attached drawings.
With reference to
In use, the tube 12 is mounted on the shaft of an implement. Finger rings 20 are positioned on the tube in predetermined locations that are dependent on the type of implement and finger size of the individual using the device. Finger rings 20 are adjusted in accord with the desired finger placement. The user inserts the proper fingers and thumb in the rings for proper placement.
It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but encompasses any and all embodiments within the scope of the following claims.
