Activities to Help Develop Fine Motor Skills
1. Finger Painting
Let them explore different textures while strengthening hand and finger movements.
2. Stacking Cups or Blocks Helps with hand-eye coordination and grip control.
3. Dropping Objects into a Container
Use small toys or pom-poms and a cup to practice grasping and releasing.
4. Tearing Paper
Strengthens finger muscles and builds coordination.
5. Sensory Bins
Let them scoop, pour, and grab different textured items like rice, beans, or water beads.
6. Clothespin or Peg Play
Opening and closing clothespins strengthens finger muscles.
7. Playing with Playdough Squishing, rolling, and pinching playdough strengthens hand muscles.
8. Pincer Grasp Practice
Let them pick up small, baby-safe snacks (like puffs or peas) using their thumb and forefinger.
9. Squeezing Sponges or Washcloths
A fun way to build hand strength during bath time or water play.
10. Threading Large Beads or Pasta
Great for developing hand control (use thick string or pipe cleaners).
Never leave babies or small children unattended with small objects.
Small objects that fit in their mouths can be a choking hazard.