Fine motor skills — the small movements that control our hands, fingers, and wrists — are critical for a child’s independence and readiness for school. At Saige, we integrate fine motor development into daily routines and play-based learning, helping children build the strength and coordination needed for tasks like drawing, dressing, and writing.
Our educators create playful experiences using tools like tweezers, scissors, threading beads, and stacking blocks. These activities develop control, dexterity, and bilateral coordination. According to the Victorian Department of Education, early fine motor practice supports brain development and underpins later literacy and numeracy success (https://www.education.vic.gov.au/childhood/professionals/learning/Pages/schoolreadiness.aspx).
We also encourage self-help tasks such as zipping jackets, opening containers, or buttoning shirts — turning everyday moments into meaningful learning opportunities. In art, we use tools like paintbrushes and clay tools to promote precision and hand strength. During sensory play, materials like playdough, kinetic sand, and water beads invite squeezing, shaping, and pouring, all of which enhance motor development.
Family partnerships play an important role. We share ideas for simple at-home activities like pasta threading, tearing paper, or using tongs to sort snacks. These help extend fine motor practice beyond the classroom in fun and natural ways.
At Saige, we view fine motor development not as isolated exercises but as part of a child’s joyful exploration of the world. With the right tools, encouragement, and plenty of play, children gain the confidence and control to do things for themselves, one small movement at a time.