With school being out, that doesn’t mean the learning has to end! There are so many fun activities that can help children develop their fine and gross motor skills. I know life can get crazy with the management of jobs, home maintenance, and the running of kid’s schedules. Don’t worry, these activities are not built to add a huge burden on parents’ shoulders. These are not complicated or work intensive activities, these activities are very simple and easy to incorporate into whatever rhythm you have for the summertime. Participating in these activities will help equip kids with the skills they need to thrive in their school environment.
What are fine and gross motor skills?
Fine motor skills include small movements that require precision. This can include the use of the fingers, hands, and wrists. This could be something like turning the pages of a book or using scissors. Gross motor skills involve big movements such as running or jumping. They also include larger muscles groups such as in the legs or core for activities like sitting, standing, etc.
Activities
Gross Motor:
- Sidewalk chalk: you can do so much with chalk! You could make a hopscotch game, draw a balance beam and practice tricks, make a racetrack for scooters/bikes, or even just drawing on the ground (this can also help with fine motor)
- Walk like an animal: have kids try and imitate different animals. This will help children develop greater awareness of their bodies and greater overall strength and coordination.
- Obstacle course: this can be made from chalk with different shapes representing different actions or steps they need to take. You could also make an obstacle course throughout the house using pillows or other objects to make a path. This helps with coordination and strengthening several gross motor areas.
Fine Motor:
To develop fine motor skills, easy crafts that involve the use of scissors, glue, tying, etc. will be very beneficial.
- Toilet Roll Octopus Craft
- Playdough Mats
- Sensory Bins are also a great option. I have linked here one that is easy to craft but there are several other options!
- Fish Threading Activity
These are just a few suggestions for easy activities to add into your summer to help your kids in their development journey! Enjoy your summer fun and learning!
