When a baby opens and closes those little fists, the hands begin to develop the skill of grasping and releasing (letting go).
Touching and rubbing hands over many shapes and textures help develop the sense of touch.
Find common household objects, safe for a baby to hold. These provide opportunities for babies to learn how their hands move, feel and interact with the outside world.
Here are simple activities that establish the foundation for later hand manipulation skills:
- Encourage grasping
- Very simple Hand Play (e.g. “Open Shut Them…” Wave bye bye…)
- Encourage pointing with index finger
- Provide opportunities for weight bearing on hands (such as during tummy time)
