Understanding the Importance of Fine Motor Skills Development for Children
- claire2876
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Fine motor skills[1] are the skills we have that help us use our hands, wrists, and fingers to do small tasks and activities in school, work, and everyday life. These activities include opening jars, doing up buttons and using cutlery. Fine motor skills are an important aspect of human development. They involve the use of small muscles in the hands and fingers, and are used for activities such as writing, drawing, and using utensils. Developing strong fine motor skills can have a positive impact on a range of areas, including academic performance, social skills, and daily living activities. In this blog, we will discuss various ways to improve fine motor skills, including exercises, activities, and tools that can be used to help children and adults develop these important skills. We will also explore the different stages of fine motor development and provide tips for parents, teachers, and caregivers to support the growth of these skills in their children and students. Whether you are a parent looking for ways to help your child improve their handwriting, or an occupational therapist seeking new ideas for fine motor interventions, this blog is for you. Join us as we dive into the world of fine motor skills and discover new ways to help individuals reach their full potential.
One of the simplest ways to improve fine motor skills is by engaging in activities that require the use of small muscles in the hands and fingers. These can include playing with small toys, such as blocks or Legos, or engaging in arts and crafts projects that involve cutting, pasting, and colouring. It is also important to provide children with plenty of opportunities to practice writing and drawing, as these activities can help to strengthen the muscles in the hands and fingers. Additionally, there are many tools and exercises that can be used to improve fine motor skills, such as squeezing a stress ball or using tweezers to pick up small objects. By incorporating these activities and tools into daily routines, individuals can develop stronger fine motor skills and improve their overall quality of life.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OUR FINE MOTOR SKILLS GROUP:
Fine motor skills are important for almost everything we do that involves using our hands and fingers! The fine motor group focuses on these tricky tasks and builds confidence and skills to complete them with ease.
Working on precision of hand movements
Hand strength
Separating tasks such as putting small items into categories.
Working on grasp and in-hand manipulation
Using play to develop fine motor skills.
Develop confidence in daily activities involving fine motor skills e.g.
Tying up shoelaces
Buttoning and unbuttoning clothes
Picking up small items
Writing and typing
Opening packaging
We also love to play with Lego in our Fine Motor Group as it is not only fun but helps to develop the small muscles in the hands and fingers[2].
To book into this group head to the following link: Group Programs or call the office on (02)44216013.
More information and resources can be found here: