Fine motor skills are small movements (such as picking up small objects or using a pencil) that use the small muscles of the fingers and wrists. Gross motor skills are the bigger movements (such as climbing and lifting heavy objects) that use the large muscles in the arms, legs and torso. Children need to develop strong muscles in their torso, shoulders and arms before strengthening the muscles in their hands and fingers so that they can hold and use a pencil comfortably and with good control. You can help develop your child’s gross motor skills by encouraging them to lift heavy objects and use the climbing frame and monkey bars at the park. The following website gives lots of ideas for developing your child’s fine motor skills.
Have a go at making some playdough together and join the Dough Disco!
Playdough Recipe
Ingredients
2 cups of plain flour
2 teaspoons of vegetable oil
Half a cup of salt
2 teaspoons of cream of tartar
1 and a half cups of boiling water
Food colouring
Food essence / flavourings (optional)
Cooking method
Put all of the ingredients in a bowl. Mix together. Allow to cool a little. Knead until you have a smooth doh.