What are Fine Motor Developmental Delays?

[two_third]Fine motor developmental delays describe a lag in the ability to use the extremities (hands, fingers, wrists, tongue, lips, feet, and toes) as expected for a child’s age. Fine motor skills involve the ability to hold, use, or manipulate objects using some of the smallest muscles of the body. These skills require hand-eye coordination as well as nerve and muscle control. Children need fine muscle skills to complete tasks like coloring, picking up toys, using scissors, and even making a pucker face with the lips.[/two_third]

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Why are Fine Motor Skills Important?

Children rely on fine motor skills to complete basic tasks in school and everyday life. Without fine motor skills, children can struggle with classroom activities or morning self-care. Examples of why children how children use fine motor skills include the following:

What are the Fine Motor Developmental Milestones?

Fine motor developmental milestones are abilities to look for as your child reaches a certain age. Below are standard fine motor milestones and the common age for performing them:

Age Birth to 1 Year:

Seek assistance if your one-year-old is not performing activities like using finger foods, banging objects together, grabbing desired toys, or if movements seem shaky or stiff.

Age 1 Year:
Age 2 Years:
Age 3 Years:
Age 4 Years

What Causes Fine Motor Developmental Delays?

Some children simply reach fine motor milestones later than others due to slower-developing muscles, and there is no long-term issue. However, some children may have a neurological and coordination problem known as developmental coordination disorder (DCD) or dyspraxia. This occurs when the brain and muscles have trouble working together. Other children may have dysgraphia, a writing challenge that affects coloring, drawing, or using utensils. If the fine motor delay is related to a medical issue, it typically involves one of the following:

What is the Treatment for Fine Motor Developmental Delays?

Treatment for fine motor developmental delays are multidisciplinary and can include occupational therapy as well as sensory-motor and sensory-processing therapy. A developmental-behavioral pediatrician may also get involved to recommend multisensory tips and techniques. Children may receive broad occupational therapy through an IEP or a 504 plan. The occupational therapist may also recommend the following at-home activities:

Contact The Warren Center for more information on how to get started with occupational therapy.