Step 4
Are we building muscle for writing… or just throwing pencils at the problem?
We want future writers, not frustrated flingers. If a child can’t grip a pencil, it’s not time for tracing sheets - it’s time for finger gyms and messy play.
What can we do?
Tweezer games, not worksheets - pick up pom-poms, not pressure.
Strength through play - playdough, squirt bottles, threading, and pegs.
Sideways writing - mark-making with chalk, paintbrushes, or sticks first.
Tiny tasks, big benefits - peeling stickers, opening lunch lids.
Ditch the perfection - wobbly lines are still fine motor practice.
Reflection Prompts
Are we prioritising body strength or jumping to fine motor skills?
How do we get gross motor activity indoors on rainy days?
Are we observing hand preference or accidentally correcting it too soon?
Are fine motor tasks purposeful or just fiddly?
Activities to Try
Wall Painters: Tape paper to walls and let children paint with big arm movements.
Tidy-Up Tools: Give real brooms, cloths, or crates - core strength meets responsibility.
Hand Tool Hub: Rotate tweezers, spoons, scissors, chalks - observe, don’t interfere.