By Dr. Vini Jhariya | Child & Clinical Psychologist | Founder, Urjasvini Child Development Center, Indore
Have you noticed your child struggling to hold a pencil, button a shirt, or cut paper with scissors? You’re not alone. A growing number of children are facing delays in fine motor skills, which are essential for school readiness and daily independence.
As a psychological counsellor in Indore, I often see how these struggles can impact a child’s confidence and emotional well-being. The good news? With the right guidance and activities, we can help kids rebuild strength in their little hands—and their self-esteem.
Why Fine Motor Skills Matter
Fine motor development is vital for tasks such as:
- Holding a pencil and writing clearly
- Cutting, gluing, or coloring during schoolwork
- Dressing—zipping, buttoning, or tying shoelaces
- Using utensils during meals
- Playing instruments or sports
These aren’t just everyday tasks—they’re stepping stones to a child’s independence, confidence, and learning success.
What’s Causing the Decline in Hand Strength?
1. Too Much Screen Time
Swiping and tapping on screens involve very little muscle use. Hands don’t get the same workout they would from holding crayons, squeezing clay, or turning pages.
2. Reduced Outdoor Play
Climbing, digging, and swinging naturally build strength. Many children today spend less time outdoors, limiting their physical development.
3. Shift to Sedentary Play
Digital games have replaced building blocks, craft kits, and puzzles—activities that once promoted hand coordination and strength.
4. Academic Pressure Over Play
More classrooms now prioritize structured academics over play-based learning, especially in early years. This limits crucial hands-on development time.
Why Hand Strength is Essential
- Academic Performance
Supports writing, drawing, and using learning tools effectively. - Daily Life Independence
Enables dressing, eating, hygiene routines, and more without constant help. - Cognitive & Motor Development
Improves hand-eye coordination and brain-body connection. - Confidence & Emotional Resilience
Kids feel more capable and independent, which boosts self-esteem—something we always support during counselling for child behaviour.
Fun Activities to Boost Hand Strength in Kids
Here are simple, therapist-approved ideas that build muscle while making kids smile:
- Clay & Play Dough – Rolling, squeezing, and pinching build grip strength
- Building Blocks/LEGOs – Enhances precision, pressure control, and coordination
- Arts & Crafts – Use scissors, stickers, and paintbrushes
- Outdoor Games – Monkey bars, digging, climbing, and carrying buckets
- Kitchen Fun – Stir batter, knead dough, or use tongs
- Household Tasks – Fold towels, hang clothes, sort pulses or buttons
Practical Tips for Parents and Teachers
- Cut Back on Screens – Encourage hands-on, real-world activities.
- Prioritize Outdoor Play – Let kids run, climb, and explore.
- Daily Fine Motor Time – Integrate puzzles, coloring, and crafts.
- Make Chores Fun – Household tasks can become playful challenges.
- Stay Patient and Encouraging – Every child develops at their own pace.
Final Thoughts from a Child Psychologist in Indore
Children today are growing up in a digital-first world, but real growth still happens through real, hands-on experiences. If you’re concerned about your child’s development or independence, don’t wait.
At Urjasvini Child Development Center, we offer expert child counselling in Indore to support emotional and motor skill development through play-based therapy and customized interventions.