Fine Motor Fun

Fine motor skills are the ability to make movements using the small muscles in our hands and wrists. We rely on these skills to do key tasks in school, at work and in everyday life. These small movements come so naturally to most people that we usually don’t think about them. But fine motor skills are complex. They involve a coordinated effort between the brain and muscles. They’re built on the gross motor skills that let us make bigger movements, like running or jumping.

Some examples of when we use these fine motor skills:
– holding a pencil, crayon, or pen
-drawing pictures and writing
-using a keyboard
-using scissors, rulers, or other tools
-doing clothes fasteners
-opening containers for daily living tasks
-folding clothes
-playing an instrument
-twisting a doorknob
-playing video games using a controller

Fine motor skills start developing in infancy, and keep improving as you get older.
Kids don’t all develop at the same pace. But there are milestones they usually reach at different ages. Fine motor control is a complex process that requires awareness, planning, coordination, muscle strength, normal sensation and precision.

Fine motor skills are important in our lives. Countless everyday tasks require tiny, precise movements-from holding a toothbrush to cooking and eating, to putting on clothes. Even texting and giving your dog a belly rub require these skills. All of these tasks are important for independence and self-care. They also allow us to enjoy certain hobbies, such as crafting. For a child, fine motor skills are important for doing schoolwork, like drawing or writing. Several work-related tasks involve fine motor skills, too-like using construction tools, computer, or performing surgery.

People can have problems with fine motor skills at any age and for different reasons.
There are ways to help a child or adult build motor skills as home. Yes, kids get opportunities to do fine motor activities at school; however, all could benefit from more. And if they are having fun while doing it, why not? Doing activities at home does not have to be overly complicated or messy but can greatly impact your child’s skill development.

As an occupational therapist and mother, I want to share how you can improve fine motor skill development using common supplies and household items.