Free Program for Pre-Kindergarten
by Erin Pahmahmie
May 07, 2009
PARENTS AS TEACHERS
A free program for all USD 337 families with birth to
pre-kindergarten children.
Lisa Balaun, coordinator
Joanne Berns & Shawnda Holcomb, parent educators
Supporting Fine Motor Skills
There is no denying the fact that between
age three and kindergarten it is an exciting time full of
exploration, fun, and development. This period is especially
important to a child’s fine motor skills, or small muscles. These
small muscles include hands, fingers, toes, mouth, lips, tongue,
and sphincter muscles. Out of all the fine motor skills a child is
developing, the hands and fingers need a great deal of practice in
order to build strength and dexterity (the ability to “gracefully”
coordinate small muscles). This strength is needed for writing to
transpire, as the child gets older. Using a variety of activities
and materials will keep it interesting and at the same time build
strength and dexterity for the development of fine motor muscles.
Here are some ways to help support a child’s fine motor
development:
-Roll play dough into tiny balls using only finger tips.
-Touch and squeeze textured
items by taking a walk and picking up leaves, rocks, or twigs.
-Later use these discoveries for painting.
-Build with blocks using a variety of sizes and shapes.
-Use pegs or toothpicks to draw on play dough.
-Shake dice by cupping the hands together, forming an empty air
space between the palms.
-Lacing and sewing activities such as stringing beads, Cheerios,
macaroni, etc.
-Use scissors to cut junk mail.
-Tear strips of paper to fill a small paper bag, which can become a
pumpkin or snowman.
These activities are fun and at the same
time will build a foundation for writing. They will help strengthen
the hands and fingers; which are ultimately the being for
handwriting later.
If you are interested in participating in our PAT program please
contact Lisa Balaun at 986-6286.
