This was a mistake. I have to learn over and over again that limiting the choices is KEY for my kids. Later in the week, I cut it down and split it into two trays. And, this is also one of those activities for which that Dollar Tree supplies WILL NOT WORK.
Punching tray:
Use 1 DECENT hole puncher, like the one pictured above, leftover strips of paper from other projects, Dollar Tree Zen garden tray for a trash tray and a paper liner. You see the froggy punch out on the left? Dollar tree punchers are HARD and don’t line up correctly.
Variations: other decent punchers (one or two only), a three hole punch (a good one that actually releases the paper and does stick on one or more holes.
Stapling and UN-stapling tray:
Same tray, paper, and liner set-up. A DECENT stapler, a staple remover, and box of staples. Demonstrate for child how to load and unload stapler, staple two sheets together, remove staples, and put the tray to rights.
Note: Child WILL want to staple without paper or hold like a gun and *shoot staples. I allowed it as long as the staples remained on the tray or were shot into the trash tray. It’s up to you, but know that it WILL come up.