Fine Motor Skills Development
Fine motor skills are the small, controlled movements of the hands and fingers. Children use them all day long — doing up buttons, opening a lunchbox, holding a pencil, cutting with scissors and building with blocks. When these skills are slower to develop, everyday tasks can become frustrating and children may start to avoid them.
Our therapists build fine motor skills through play and through the real tasks your child finds hard, so that progress in the session carries over to home, preschool and school.
We can help with
- Buttons, Zippers and Shoelaces
- Opening and closing a lunchbox or unscrewing a water bottle
- Cutting with Scissors
- Planning movements / sequencing
How sessions work
We start by looking at how your child currently manages the tasks you are concerned about, then set goals with you that are meaningful for your family — for example, opening their own lunchbox by the start of term. Sessions use games and activities matched to your child’s interests, and we give you simple ways to practise between sessions.
Fine motor sessions can be run at home, at preschool or school, or via telehealth.
Where we can work on this
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Mobile Therapy Sessions
We offer mobile therapy sessions so that your child is able to work on developing skills required in the home, at school, preschool or while in the community.
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Telehealth
Telehealth sessions are available for clients who aren’t able to attend regular face to face sessions and offer flexibility for families who have a busy schedule, are isolating or live remotely.
Fine Motor Skills Development: your questions
At what age should I be concerned about fine motor skills?
Children develop at different rates, but if your child is noticeably behind their peers, avoids drawing, cutting or self-care tasks, or is getting frustrated with them, it is worth having an assessment. Early support tends to make school transitions easier.
Can fine motor therapy be done via telehealth?
Yes. Telehealth works well for coaching parents through activities at home, and for children who cannot easily attend face to face. Your therapist will recommend the setting that suits your child’s goals.
Ready to get started?
Tell us a little about your child and what you’d like help with, and we’ll be in touch to talk through the next steps.