What are fine motor skills?

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Fine motor skills involve the small muscles in the hands and fingers that support everyday activities, including:

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Drawing and handwriting
Using scissors
Doing up buttons and zips
Feeding and utensil use
Manipulating small objects

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Strong fine motor skills are essential for independence at home and participation at school.

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Signs a child may need support with fine motor skills

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You might notice:

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Difficulty holding or controlling a pencil
Avoiding drawing or craft tasks
Struggling to use cutlery or open containers
Fatigue during writing
Messy handwriting or incorrect pencil grip

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These are common challenges — and with the right support, children can improve significantly.

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OT-informed ways to build fine motor skills at home

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Strengthen the hands

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Play dough or putty
Squeezing sponges or spray bottles
Opening jars or containers

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Improve dexterity

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Beading
Lego or construction toys
Tweezers or tongs games

Support pre-writing skills

Tracing shapes
Vertical drawing on easels or windows
Sand, shaving cream or sensory trays

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Make it playful

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Children learn best through meaningful, hands-on experiences — not worksheets.

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When to seek extra support

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If fine motor challenges are impacting your child’s confidence, schoolwork or independence, an occupational therapist can provide assessment and targeted strategies.

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Take the first leap towards progress

Completing our intake form is the best way to get started—it helps us understand your child's needs and how we can support them. Submitting the form is obligation-free and does not commit you to therapy. It’s simply a way to start the conversation and explore the best options for your child.

Once we receive your form, our team will reach out to discuss the next steps and answer any questions you may have. Let’s work together to support your child’s growth and development!

intake form

Remember, every child is unique

The presence of one or more of these signs does not automatically mean that therapy is needed. However, if you have concerns about your child's development, motor skills, sensory processing, self-care abilities, or overall functional performance, it is recommended to consult with a therapist. They can assess your child's needs and recommend appropriate therapy interventions to support their growth and development.

A Parent’s Guide to Developing Fine Motor Skills