We are slowly beginning to focus on pre-writing skills, with lots of fun activities to promote fine motor development. At this age and stage, we do not expect children to be able to correctly hold a pen or pencil. The focus in Chapple Room is to strengthen and encourage pre-writing skills. This week we are using the chopsticks to manipulate magnetic shapes and letters. We are also exploring how to use the etcha-sketch/magnadoodle, which everyone is enjoying. Last week we used the pin boards and the tap tap to encourage fine motor manipulation and movement. Many children at this age still hold their writing implements with the fist grip, and may hold a paint brush at the very end. This is completely normal. We encourage children to participate and enjoy any writing/painting activity, rather than focus on the correct grip. If you are looking for any activities to do at home to further develop your child's fine motor skills, here are some suggestions.
1. Dot painting using ear buds
2. Use tongs to select food during dinner time- cutlery should also be used competently, rather than fingers/hands
3. Use chopsticks to pick up small objects
4. Any sensory play, such as gloop, playdough, finger painting etc
5. Use tweezers to manipulate objects
A great website with more activities is otplan.com, which has quite an extensive list of prew-writing games.
Always remember to enjoy this phase of your child's development and try not to worry or pressure them.
Have a lovely weekend.
Chapple Room Team
