Fine motor skills are often an over looked part of a student’s curriculum. These motor skills are at the center for building a strong foundation for handwriting, and allow the child to gain more control of their hands and fingers. With a little creativity you can build a Montessori activity that will not only promote fine motor skills but can also help your child learn more about colors and letters. All you need is some clothespins, pens and a little time!
Clothespin Matching
What you need: Wooden clothespins, basket, tin or paper plate, scissors and glue or tape
What you do: Find basic objects around your house; write down either the name of that object or its color. Carefully cut out each letter, and place them on a 3×5 card, with a picture of the object (get your kids to help with this piece!). On your clothespins, write out each letter on a separate clothespin. When you and your child are ready, pick a card and begin placing the correct clothespin with the letter on the card. As they progress you can find different object and continue to challenge your child. Over time your child will begin to recognize letters and objects while working on fine motor skills and improving hand-eye coordination.