Candy Cane Toss

Purpose of the Activity

This activity is designed to provide a joyful and engaging holiday experience while supporting the well-being of residents. The benefits include:
- Physical: Encourages gentle arm and shoulder movement, and helps maintain hand-eye coordination.
- Social: Creates a fun, shared experience that fosters connection and friendly competition among residents.
- Cognitive: Requires focus and concentration to aim and toss the candy cane. Following the simple rules of the game provides gentle mental stimulation.
- Sensory: Engages the senses through the sight of festive decorations, the smell of peppermint and hot cocoa, and the tactile sensation of holding the candy cane.
- Emotional: Promotes feelings of joy, accomplishment, and holiday spirit in a low-pressure, supportive environment.

Materials Needed

- Candy Canes: A generous supply of standard-sized, individually wrapped candy canes. Having a few larger plastic candy canes can also be helpful.
- Garland: A sturdy and thick holiday garland. Tinsel, faux pine, or beaded styles work well.
- Stands: Two chairs (placed back-to-back), a portable coat rack, or two weighted stands to drape the garland across.
- Seating: Comfortable chairs for all participating residents.
- Serving Cart or Table: A small, stable surface for a hot cocoa station.
- Hot Cocoa Supplies: Hot chocolate mix, a carafe of hot water or warm milk, and mugs.
- Optional Toppings: Mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings.
- Holiday Music: A playlist of festive background music.
- Basket or Bowl: To hold the candy canes for tossing.
- Tape: To secure the garland to the chairs or stands if needed.

Estimated Duration

30 to 60 minutes. This allows for approximately 15-30 minutes of gameplay and 15-25 minutes for socializing over hot cocoa.

Ideal Group Size

5 to 10 residents. This size is small enough to ensure everyone gets plenty of turns without a long wait time, which helps maintain engagement.