What is "Fine Motor"?

What is "Fine Motor"?  Many may have noticed this special time on our class schedule twice weekly.

Fine Motor refers to movements that require a high degree of control and precision.  This may include drawing shapes, writing, cutting with scissors, and eating using utensils.  During our scheduled fine motor time this year, students will work to strengthen their muscles essential to development in these key areas. 

Should fine motor strengthening be limited to utilizing pencils and paper, scissors, and utensils, however?

Of course not- there is so much more out there!  Click here for some engaging activities to try at home, or on the "Fine Motor Activities" link on the left-hand side of this blog.

Last week students used playdough during our formal fine motor time.  Playdough can be purchased at craft stores, or you can make homemade versions on-the-cheap. 

Each student was given a letter of the alphabet- in both upper and lowercase form, protected with a clear plastic sheet.  After a ball of playdough was distributed to each child, they used their fine motor muscles to break it down into smaller strips (or "snakes", as I like to call them) to form each letter.  This was a quick and fun way to promote awareness of the alphabet, proper letter formation, and build on their growing muscles.

Keep up the great work, 6D!