Fine Motor Skills 

Evidence  

Early developmental intervention programmes provided post hospital discharge to prevent motor and cognitive impairment in preterm infants 

Orton J, Doyle LW, Tripathi T, Boyd R, Anderson PJ, Spittle A 

Abstract: Infants born preterm are at increased risk of cognitive and motor impairments compared with infants born at term. Early developmental interventions for preterm infants are targeted at the infant or the parent-infant relationship, or both, and may focus on different aspects of early development.  

Education 

Fine motor skills are the small movements your child makes using their hands, fingers and wrists. These skills help your child learn to do everyday tasks like feeding themselves, turning pages in a book, handling small objects, drawing and getting dressed. Fine motor skill development is crucial for achieving independence and being involved daily living activities.  

During the toddler years, your child is learning how to control these small muscles of the hands. This takes time, practice and lots of play. As their skills grow, your child becomes more independent and confident. 

You may notice your toddler starting to: 

• Pick up small objects using their thumb and finger 

• Hold a crayon and make marks on paper 

• Turn pages in a book 

• Stack blocks or build simple towers 

• Use a spoon to feed themselves 

• Open and close containers or lids 

• Use two hands together 

These skills develop gradually. Some children may learn them quickly, while others take more time. This is normal. Every child grows and develops at their own pace. 

For children who were born early or have had medical or hospital experiences, these skills may take a little longer to develop. They may need extra time, support and opportunities to practice. With gentle encouragement, they can continue to build these important skills. 

Note: During the first 2-3 years of your child’s life when a baby is born before their due date, they will have two ages: their corrected age and their chronological age. https://www.miraclebabies.org.au/content/corrected-age/gmf9vc   

Empowerment 

You can support your child’s fine motor skills through simple, everyday play and routines. These moments do not need to be complicated, small activities can make a big difference. 

There are many gentle ways to support your child: 

• Offer opportunities to draw, scribble, or paint 

• Encourage play with blocks, puzzles, stringing/threading toys, or stacking toys 

• Let your child help with simple tasks like feeding themselves, zipping zippers, or brushing teeth 

• Provide safe items to open, close, or explore 

• Use playdough or soft clay to squeeze, roll, and shape 

Play is one of the best ways for your child to learn. When your child is enjoying what they are doing, they are also building strength, coordination and confidence. 

If your child finds some tasks tricky, this is a normal part of learning. With time, practice and support, their skills will grow but if you have concerns about your child’s development speak to your healthcare team at your next appointment.  

Useful Links 

Pregnancy, birth and baby 

https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/toddler-development-motor-skills 

Sydney Children's Hospital network  

https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/kids-health-hub/growth-and-development/babies/milestones 

Miracle Babies Foundation 

https://www.miraclebabies.org.au/content/fine-motor-skills/gmw54g 

Government of Western Australia: Child & Adolescent Health Service 

Hand skills 

Playgroup Victoria 

Fine-Motor-Skills.pdf 

Playgroup WA 

Play ideas to develop fine motor skills - Playgroup WA  

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