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Fine Motor Skills

What are fine motor skills and why are they important? Fine motor skills are controlled hand and finger movements used to perform specific tasks such as holding utensils to eat or write; or, using fingers to fasten a button or close a zipper on a jacket. Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in helping children develop and enhance their fine motor skills. Through engaging activities and tailored interventions, our therapists support children in improving their hand-eye coordination, grasping, and manipulation abilities. By enhancing these skills, children boost their cognitive abilities, setting the stage for future learning and growth. 

What are some of the signs of poor fine motor skills in children?

 

Difficulty holding a pencil or crayon:

  • Children with poor fine motor skills may struggle to hold a writing tool correctly and apply the right amount of pressure. They may also have trouble controlling the pencil or crayon movements, resulting in messy handwriting.

Struggles with basic self-care:

  • Dressing, feeding, and grooming require fine motor skills. Children who struggle with fine motor skills may find it hard to button their shirts, tie their shoes, or brush their teeth.

Inability to manipulate small objects:

  • Building blocks, puzzles, and small toys require fine motor control. Children with poor fine motor skills may struggle to manipulate small objects or stack blocks.

Lack of Hand-eye coordination:

  • Hand-eye coordination involves the ability to use the eyes and hands together. Children with poor fine motor skills may struggle to catch or throw a ball or target an object with a toy.

Poor scissor skills:

  • Cutting requires a lot of fine motor control, and children with poor fine motor skills may struggle to use scissors effectively. If you have concerns about your child's development, including their fine motor skills, it is important to speak with their pediatrician or a specialist in child development. An evaluation can help determine if there are underlying issues that need to be addressed and provide recommendations for appropriate interventions.

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