tips on improving fine motor skills

[mumsy]

My 3yr old seems to be behind on his fine motor skills compared with the other kids in his class, some examples being he still scribbles as opposed to drawing or tracing over lines, has difficulty using scissors and threading objects onto a string.

Apart from letting him practise more with these activities, are there any other ideas on improving his fine motor skills. Thanks.

[southside852]

there are lots of toys/activities that require fine motor skills. Of course, practising what you feel he needs work on directly will be most beneficial, but it can be done in a fun way. art projects are a great way for kids to learn various skills and can be done with the family so it's not seen as being "work." Does he have a favorite book/character? Can you find a coloring/art book with him/her in it? If you just google art, kids, projects etc...I am sure you can get tons of great ideas that are age appropriate.

[rani]

One of my son's teachers recommended Playdoh activities.

[aussiegal]

I have a 3 year old boy and none of his 3 year old friends are capable of doing what you describe. Boys in particular find these sorts of things fairly difficult. Give it time. Just keep giving him opportunities to get better.

[lesliefu]

building blocks / legos (build ones) is also a fun way to help with fine motor, particularly for boys. i wouldn't rush it though just give him more opportunity to practice and it will develop in time. don't worry!

[babymommy2]

YOur three year old sounds normal. My 3 year old scribbles, doesn't trace anyting. he can use scissors but it is just random cutting. Boys tend to be further behind in fine motor and they have different interests. My 5 year old boy hates to color, but loves to cut and glue. My suggestions would be to find things that interest him more. I found a set of construction lacing cards, intended for the 5 year old, but my 3 year old can also do them. He doesn't follow the numbers on them, but he can lace them up and like to do this. They both like this better than threading things onto a string, but it is basically the same skill. Let him cut with scissors, even if it is just random. My three year old like the little lego (vs. the big duplo). I'll build him a vehile and then he will add things to it. I do have to watch him close though as he did stick a piece up his nose a few months ago. Sticker books are good too, or having to glue certain peices into place to make a picture.

[mumsy]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I think he loses interest if I try to duplicate the stuff he does at school, so I will definitely try some new arts and crafts ideas.
It's also reassuring to hear it's quite normal for his age. He's one of the younger ones in the class so I guess there's a huge development gap between him and those who are almost a year older.

[southside852]

along those same lines, there are some great themed puzzles out there that are totally age appropriate and high interest. Trying to fit the pieces together can be lots of fun for him. I would encourage you to play with your son too for if you are excited about something, he will be excited to also work on the project!