Writing is a skill that is needed in all areas of the classroom. In math, we must write numbers. In science, we must write hypotheses, predictions, and various notes and measurements, and so on. Unlike learning to walk, which comes naturally to us as human beings, writing is a skill that must be learned. Before we begin writing our name, we are taught to make lines. Before we learn to write lines, we must first learn how to hold a pen or pencil.

Question: How do I teach my child to hold a pencil?
Answer: They must develop their pincer grasp.

Fine motor stacking, such as this, is a great way to build that dexterity. If you have an older child who has already developed this pincer grasp, this activity can be extended, to work on more specific skills such as color matching, and concentration!

Benefits:

Builds fine motor skills, concentration, and visual perception

Materials:

Foam block (Styrofoam, or Playdough), Toothpicks or Wooden skewers, Buttons or Round cereal (Cheerios, Fruit Loops, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Stick the wooden skewers into the foam block, Styrofoam, or playdough ball.
2. Allow your child to put the buttons or round cereal on the skewers, until they reach the top!

Tip: Before your child begins stacking, make sure the buttons or cereal fits over the skewers.

Age/Difficulty Variations:

• For younger children (Infants- Age 2), try using large beads if the buttons or cereal are too difficult (or distracting).
• For older children (Ages 3-Elementary), place multiple skewers or use different types such as toothpicks, twigs, spaghetti noodles, or pipe cleaners. Try color matching by coloring the toothpicks or skewers the same color as the various buttons.

Note:

Get creative with items you have at home! A favorite activity for children here at Living Montessori is matching colored beads to the same color pipe cleaners, beading as they go!

We would love to see the creative ways you were able to practice fine motor stacking! Tag us in your pictures on Instagram and Facebook! We hope you enjoyed our day 8 activity of the 15 Days of Winter Break Activities series!
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