Six ways to build kids' fine motor skills for independence in self-care tasks:

1. Toys: Use a variety of toys that promote fine precision use of the fingers/fingertips.

2. Limit screen time: iPADs, phones and computers do not allow the hand muscles to fully develop. While an organized and limited amount of screen time may be ok for older children, it shouldn't replace valuable time for kids to engage in more skilled hands-on play-based tasks.

3. Physical assistance: Use hand over hand (gently & if child is receptive- be mindful of personal space & age of child, as well as tactile sensitivities) as necessary to reposition fingers properly, then fade away to let child “finish” the task.

4. Dressing & undressing: Engage the child in some part of dressing/undressing. It can be helpful to have them perform the last step and then move backwards from there (this is called backward-chaining). Backward chaining allows for the task to be completed in a functional amount of time, while allowing the child to feel a sense of accomplishment, which can feed their future motivation for dressing independently.

5. Eating & drinking: During mealtimes, allow them to use different utensils until they find one that makes them successful. Give small amounts of liquids in cups to promote hand-to-mouth control. Use straws. Expect and allow messes - this is the only way for kids to gain the muscular control that is needed for successful eating and drinking skills.

6. Build upper body and hand strength: Use a variety of large motor and gross motor activities such as running, jumping, crawling, rolling, climbing, and hanging outdoors at playgrounds, in nature, or indoor play areas. The strength and coordination of the larger muscles of the body set the foundation for the smaller muscles in the forearms and hands.