In the Junior Kindergarten class, we observe that the children are eager to begin writing. Developing fine motor control including hand strength and a strong pincer grip, are all essential foundation skills that will help lead to success when it comes to holding a pencil and forming letters and numbers.
Fine motor movements involve the coordination of small muscles in the hands and fingers. Along with helping with writing, strong fine motor skills are essential to complete tasks such as cutting, using a fork or spoon, threading beads, moving puzzle pieces, zipping, buttoning and tying shoe laces.
Children younger than one year old typically reach for and hold items with their entire fist. As children gain fine motor control, they typically progress to using all four fingers together to hold an object against their thumb. Once children develop strong fine motor skills, a true pincer grip emerges. With this grip, a child uses only his thumb and index finger to hold and manipulate small objects. With a pincer grip, a child can easily twist dials, turn the pages of a book, open and close a zipper, and use crayons or pencils with precision.
It takes time and practice for children to strengthen the muscles used for fine motor control. On our shelves, you will notice the evolving activity trays that reflect the different stages of the child’s fine motor skills through the year.
You will also witness the growth of children’s ability to build, create and manipulate these activities producing marvelous buildings, machines and masterpieces.
Please take a look at the pictures for ideas and inspiration of activities you can try at home – you’re probably doing lots already. Strengthening the fingers, hands, wrist, forearm and posture is a crucial foundation to mastering writing skills and much much more.
