A motor skill is an action carried out when the nervous system and muscles work together. A fine-motor skill is a precise movement that uses muscles in the hands, fingers, wrists, toes, feet—or even the eyes. The emphasis is on eye-hand coordination—from visually following objects and reaching for and picking up objects (small toys, blocks, cereal bits) to scribbling and drawing pictures.
Fine-motor skill development follows a predictable path. With every advancement in fine-motor skills, a toddler becomes increasingly independent.
Wondering what to watch for during your child’s first six months? Check out our chart.
It’s hard to imagine now, but your little one’s fine-motor skills will continue to be refined and grow. Before you know it, your child will be playing with complex toys, using tools, typing and mousing, and drawing and writing.
