Supporting Fine Motor Development at Home: 5 Proactive Tips from an OT

by Rachel Burgess, OTR/L

Pediatric Occupational Therapist and Arboro Coach, Rachel Burgess, OTR/L

As a pediatric occupational therapist, I often hear from parents who say things like:

“I know fine motor skills are important, but I’m not sure what to actually do at home.”

The good news? You don’t need special equipment, worksheets, or a Pinterest-worthy craft station to help your child strengthen their hands. You just need a little intention—and a little play.

Here’s what I recommend to the families I work with when they want to support fine motor development in fun, meaningful ways at home.

1. Start with Core Strength and Posture

Fine motor skills don’t begin at the fingertips—they actually start at the core. When kids have a strong, stable trunk and shoulder girdle, they’re able to control their hand and finger movements with greater precision.

Try This:

• Animal walks (bear, crab, frog)

• Playing on their belly (coloring or puzzles in prone)

• Climbing, crawling, or yoga for kids

  
  

These types of “whole body” movements set the stage for more controlled fine motor work.

2. Offer Hands-On Play That Builds Hand Strength

Before we ask kids to hold a pencil, we need to give them chances to squeeze, pinch, press, and pull. These types of resistance-based activities strengthen the small muscles of the hands.

Try This:

• Squish playdough or therapy putty

• Use tongs or tweezers to sort small objects

• Squeeze water from sponges or spray bottles

  
  

Activities like scooping, stirring, and pretend play with dough help strengthen hand muscles—without your child even realizing they’re working.

3. Look for Pincer Grasp Moments in Everyday Life

The pincer grasp (thumb and index finger working together) is what helps kids pick up coins, hold a crayon, zip their coat, and peel stickers.  The more opportunities a child has to isolate fingers and refine grasp patterns, the better. You don’t need flashcards—just tiny objects and curious fingers.

 Try This:

• Offer small items like beads, buttons, or cereal to pick up and sort.

• Use stickers, velcro, or mini clothespins

• Set up simple fine motor bins for sorting, poking, or peeling

  
  

The goal? Short bursts of practice that feel like play, not pressure..

4. Encourage Two-Handed Tasks

Many everyday tasks—like cutting with scissors, writing, or tying shoes—require both hands to work together smoothly. This ability, called bilateral coordination, is an important part of fine motor development. And the good news? It can be built through simple, playful activities.

Try this:

• Encourage clapping games, stringing beads, and using lacing cards.

• Set up obstacle courses that involve crawling or reaching across the body.

• Have them draw a large rainbow across a piece of paper using one hand without switching hands in the middle—this promotes crossing midline.

5. Keep Things Low-Pressure and Consistent

The best way to support fine motor skills? Stay playful. Kids build confidence and coordination over time—not through drills, but through repeated, engaging opportunities.

 Try This:

• Set aside 10 minutes each day for “hands-on play”

• Rotate materials weekly to keep things fresh

• Praise effort: “Wow, your fingers worked hard on that!”

Final Thoughts

Fine motor development doesn’t have to happen at a desk. In fact, some of the most effective strategies are playful, purposeful, and happen during everyday routines. As an OT, I always encourage parents to think less about perfection and more about participation. The goal is to give your child chances to explore, try, and grow—at their own pace, with your support.

When to Reach Out

If you notice that your child is consistently struggling with tasks like cutting, holding a pencil, or using utensils—or if they avoid fine motor activities altogether—it may be time to consult with an occupational therapist. Early support can make a world of difference.

Email hello@arboroempowered.com to set up a screening or consultation today!

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Comment below!

What fine motor activities are difficult for your child? What fine motor tasks does your child enjoy?