Why is this Skill Important for Development Milestones?

Here are all the developmental milestones that intertwine with fine motor skills in early development:

Hand-Eye Coordination

Fine motor skills enable children to connect their brains instructions with their body's movements, helping them perform tasks with a higher level of precision. This is essential for writing, drawing, and manipulating objects.

Academic Readiness

As fine motor skills allow children to perform more precise tasks such as writing, drawing, and using scissors, this can increase the likelihood of academic success, literacy, and numeracy development.

Independence

Developing fine motor skills increase a child’s ability to undertake everyday tasks independently such as dressing themselves, tying their laces, and eating. Doing these tasks independently will increase a child’s confidence.

Cognitive Development

Practicing fine motor skills helps develop cognitive processes advancing a child’s ability to use problem-solving skills and have special awareness.

To learn more about fine motor skills, have a read of our article, 'How to Help Your Child Develop Fine Motor Skills'.

How Can Parents Encourage Development Using Specific Toys?

Some ideas of how you can engage with children to develop fine motor skills through play are:

• Building with Blocks: Discuss what the building blocks look and feel like and encourage your child to use their imagination to design structures of their own, depending on their age.
• Puzzles and Shape Sorters: Work with your child to complete puzzles and discuss how the pieces fit together. Talk about which shapes fit which holes with shape sorters and stackers.
• Art and Craft Activities: Talk to your child about what they’d like to create and work together to create a messy masterpiece of arts and crafts.
• Musical Instruments: Talk to your child about the different sounds you can make with each instrument and play songs for them to listen and learn.
• Outdoor Play: Playing outdoors together grants you an opportunity to encourage your child to develop fine motor skills. Play with your child in a sand and water table using spades and moulds.

Engagement from parents can play a significant role in children getting the most out of their toys. Remember to keep interaction positive and offer gentle encouragement and praise if your child is finding something difficult.

Please remember that it is important to choose toys that are appropriate for your child's developmental stage and age. To learn more about your child’s milestones, have a read of our article 'Guide to Your Baby’s Developmental Milestones'.

There are many toys and games by the Early Learning Centre to help you build on your child’s early development. Discover all our Learning Skills to continue their learning journey.