The hand of a young preschooler looks like “Pillsbury doughboy,” but by Kindergarten, the hand should look like a miniature of a grownup. By five years old, all the hand muscles should be developing. They will continue to strengthen for many years but the process should begin between three and five.
The dexterity of the hand coordinates with the strengthening of the muscles. Manipulation of a three year old looks clumsy and many fine motor activities are simply too difficult. By five, the child should manage all kinds of fine motor activities. Once the hand has developed and the child demonstrates nice dexterity, learning to write can begin.
- Plant Sprayer
- Stamps
- Scissors
- Tubes
- Spinners
- Play Dough/ Clay
- Dot Art
- Peeler
- Push pins
- Fidget Toys
- Crab Walking
- Wheelbarrow Walking