Hands At Work
We know how exciting it is when a child finally starts showing an interest in writing. But before children can successfully write their names or draw shapes, they need to develop their fine motor skills. These skills involve the small muscles in the hands and fingers and are crucial for things like holding a pencil, cutting with scissors, and even fastening buttons. Rushing into writing before the hands are ready can lead to frustration.
Developing strong hands, fingers, and wrists is the key to writing success. Think of it like building a house. When the foundation is solid, everything else falls into place more easily. By strengthening these small muscles before children start writing, they’re setting themselves up for smoother, more confident handwriting. These activities lay that foundation, making writing and other tasks more fun and less frustrating.
Gather Materials
Use what you have!
- Play dough or clay
- Stickers
- Beads and string or pipe cleaners
- Small cups or containers for scooping and pouring
- Spray bottles
- Ketchup or mustard squeeze bottles (or similar recycled containers)
Note: Small parts pose a choking hazard and are not appropriate for children age five or under. Be sure to choose lesson materials that you feel are safe for your child and that you are comfortable letting your child use.
Activity
- Squeeze, Roll, and Shape
- Use play dough or clay to pinch, roll a snake, and flatten pancakes.
- Scooping and Pouring
- Use cups, spoons, or hands to scoop and pour water, or sand.
- Sticker Fun
- Peeling stickers or tape off requires finger strength and precision.
- Beads and Threading
- Thread beads onto string or pipe cleaners. This helps with pincer grip, patience, and focus.
- Squeeze Bottles
- Fill small spray bottles or recycled condiment bottles with water and let your child\ aim at targets or water plants and grass.
Our goal is not to rush them into writing their name; instead, we want to focus on fun, engaging activities that strengthen little hands, so that when they do show an interest in letters and shapes, they’re ready to take off confidently.
When the interest is shown in writing or coloring, start with small crayons and pencils. Read why here.