MOVE
Fine Motor Skills
Preschoolers are working to develop small muscle control, strength, and coordination
At A Glance
Preschoolers are exploring their developing fine motor skills in activities like drawing and zipping up their coats. These tasks require developing small muscle control, strength, and coordination. Fine motor skills also help children build self-help and learning skills by using tools (pencils, scissors, forks) and completing tasks (drawing, building, buttoning). We can support children’s development by giving them time and space to purposefully practice manipulating objects, tools, and their bodies.What It Looks Like
A quick glance at ways you can support preschoolers' fine motor skills
Balance Support and Challenge
Encourage Trying New Tools
Prompt and guide children to try new tools that may be out of their comfort zone, such as using scissors to cut a circle.
Play Movement Games
Build children’s fine motor skills with games that encourage children to use their hand-eye coordination.
EXPLORING MOVEMENT THROUGH BOOKS
What If…
Written by Samantha Berger and illustrated by Mike Curato, this story follows a child who explores the possibilities of what our hands can create beyond paper and pencil.
EXPLORING MOVEMENT THROUGH BOOKS
Be a Maker
Written by Katey Howes and illustrated by Elizabet Vuković, this book shows how different tools and grips can help make ideas into real projects.
TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE
Creative Expression
This article from EducationWeek highlights how creative expression through fine motor activities can support children who have experienced trauma.
FAMILY CONNECTION
Partnering With Families
This article by Risa Kerslake gives practical ways educators and families can collaborate together to support the development of children’s fine motor skills.
CONSIDERING EQUITY
Inclusive Block Play
This article from the Child Care Exchange shares the importance of moving away from stereotypical gendered play and encouraging girls to play with blocks.
Activity Cards for Preschool Classrooms
Part of the STREAMin3 curriculum, these activity cards provide simple and fun ways to support children's fine motor skills
Counting Fingerplays and Songs
Songs and fingerplays are a great way to support children’s fine motor skills.
Get Our Resource Guide
Includes questions and activities to guide your use of the videos, book suggestions, and activity cards featured for each of the Core Skills
