Early grasping patterns start at birth. Babies start reaching and swatting at objects around 3 months of age. Grasping objects typically start around 5 months of age and continues to develop through 5 years of age. A good time to introduce coloring is typically around the child's first birthday. Using a magnetic writing toy is recommended to avoid the child putting marker or crayons in their mouth (and saving you a possible clean-up!). As your child grows, use non-toxic washable markers, crayons, and paint. They even make these for the bath! Coloring and drawing on a vertical surface such as an easel, chalk board, or simply paper taped to the wall are ways to help your child develop upper body strength, coordination, and grasping skills.
Typical development of grasp on a writing/coloring tool is as follows:
1-1 1/2 yrs: holds with all fingers and thumb parallel to floor. Arm moves as a unit.
2-3 yrs: holds with all fingers and thumb pointing down towards floor. Forearm moves as a unit.
3.5-4 yrs: holds with thumb, index, and middle finger with back resting in web space. Hand moves as a unit.
4.5- 6 yrs: holds with thumb, index, middle, and ring finger supporting with back resting in web space. Wrist extended and resting on paper with isolated movement.
Typical development of grasp on a writing/coloring tool is as follows:
1-1 1/2 yrs: holds with all fingers and thumb parallel to floor. Arm moves as a unit.
2-3 yrs: holds with all fingers and thumb pointing down towards floor. Forearm moves as a unit.
3.5-4 yrs: holds with thumb, index, and middle finger with back resting in web space. Hand moves as a unit.
4.5- 6 yrs: holds with thumb, index, middle, and ring finger supporting with back resting in web space. Wrist extended and resting on paper with isolated movement.
Powered by Compendium
Comments for It's Not Too Early to Start Coloring