Manipulative skill activities

Description

These aren't all necessarily physical activities, but they're important in the development of fine motor skills.

  • Messy play such as play dough
  • Mark making - scribbling and drawing with thick crayons, chalk, 'painting' with water and chalks outside
  • Climbing, hanging and swinging activities - climbing frames, swings, ropes
  • Sensory activities - sand, clay, cornflour, water

These activities will:

  • Strengthen the muscles in fingers and inhibit the palmar reflex ready for learning to write
  • Develop upper body strength and strength in fingers