A vast majority of HFYH lesson planning centers around the development of fine motor function. Fine motor skills refer to precision, finger dexterity, and coordination of the hands. This skill set is used to fasten buttons, manipulate writing utensils, open containers and so much more!
The hands play an important role in most occupations that we perform. From writing, to tying, getting dressed, feeding ones self…most of our day to day tasks involve using our hands. So, when fine motor control and dexterity impacts functional performance, it can be a reason to work on motor control of the hands. Areas of development like bilateral coordination, pinch and grip strength, separation of the sides of the hand, arch development, finger isolation, thumb web space, and opposition all play a role in refined use of the fingers and hands.
– The OT Toolbox
As the use of handheld devices becomes increasingly accessible to our youngest scholars, we see a deficit in the fine motor ability of our students when compared to students in years past. It’s noticed mostly in a weak grasp of a pencil or the inability to manipulate clothing fasteners and scissors. Manipulating objects on a screen in a game is much easier (physically) than manipulating real objects. With everything, devices are just fine when used in moderation but also consider intentionally planning activities for your child that better develop their fine motor skills.
As I love to say, not every child needs occupational therapy but every child can benefit from its research-based practices. The OT Toolbox is one of my FAVORITE free resources! They’ve got a wonderful set of at-home activities that you can do at home with your child.
- Fine Motor Activities with Clothespins – The OT Toolbox
- Fine Motor Activities with Play Dough
- Fine Motor Activities with Paper Clips
- Fine Motor Activities with Craft Pom Poms or Cotton Balls
- Fine Motor Activities with Playing Cards
- Fine Motor Activities with Beads
- Fine Motor Activities with Chalk
