Collections

Fine Motor

Fine motor skills are the ability to make movements using the small muscles in the hand and wrist. Children rely on these skills at school, in their play, and for self care (i.e. dressing and eating). If they are not fully developed, children may struggle with writing neatly, coloring within lines, holding a utensil correctly, using scissors, stringing beads, and fastening buttons and zippers.

Visual Motor

Visual motor skills allow us to use our eyes and hands in a coordinated way. Children need this skill to be able to copy shapes/numbers/letters, cut with scissors, manipulate fasteners, and catch a ball. Activities may include stringing beads, copying a pattern, drawing pictures, cutting along a designated line, and target games.

Visual Processing

Visual Processing is the cognitive process that organizes visual information and interprets what is seen. If not fully developed, children may struggle with reading, writing, math, spelling, or finding items in a desk. Visual perceptual activities may include puzzles, hidden pictures, memory, word searches, and dot to dot challenges.

Strength

Strength is critical, as children need a strong core for good posture and sitting endurance. Shoulder stability, in addition to wrist/hand strength are also important for fine motor skills including pencil/paper tasks and self care skills. If a child demonstrates appropriate strength, they will be more prepared to learn, focus and participate in gross motor play. Activities will incorporate strength challenges in a playful way.

Writing

Writing requires appropriate fine motor, visual motor, visual perception and strength. Activities away from pencil/paper can help with overall engagement, motivation and progress made! HOOT loves incorporating a multi-sensory approach, and will often incorporate lessons from the Handwriting Without Tears® curriculum.