Preschoolers’ hands need time to develop. Fine motor work such as threading with beads or working with Play-Doh helps develop all the small muscles in children’s hands.

LCCAA Head Start spends a lot of time on fine motor work to prepare students to hold a pencil and become skilled writers.

One great example is threading beads onto pipe cleaners. Pipe cleaners are easier to hold and retains their shape during threading. This activity encourages the use of the pincer grasp between the thumb and forefinger. Teachers can also use this activity to teach patterns, counting and other early math skills.

Play-Doh is a popular way to strengthen hand muscles and teachers use it in a myriad of activities. Forming letters out of materials like Play-Doh adds letter recognition to the lesson.  

Our Head Start teachers are masterful at creating lessons that allow children to learn through play. There is room for your family in LCCAA Head Start. Start your child’s application at www.lccaaforms.net.