Fine motor skill development: 2 to 5 years old

What are fine motor skills?

Generally thought of as the movement and use of hands and upper extremities, fine motor skills include reaching, grasping and manipulating objects with your hand. Fine motor skills are used throughout childhood and adult years.

This is a list of fine motor skills children should demonstrate between the ages of 2 and 5 years.

2-3 years old

Likes to draw; holds crayon with fingers
Able to imitate designs like a circle or a cross

2 years old

Has hand control to build block towers
Can string beads on a shoelace

3 years old

Able to make a Cheerio or macaroni necklace
Beginning with scissor skills

4 years

Scissor skills show improvement - Able to cut simple shapes
Able to do simple puzzles (6-10 pieces)

5 years

Able to draw, paint and color (can draw a person with all body parts)
Learning printing & cursive handwriting
Can button and unbutton
Develops good finger skills
Able to place small objects (e.g., 1/4 inch beads) in a bottle quickly
Starting to work with other mediums for art like clay, paper mache, etc.
Likes video games and computer activities

What if I am concerned about my child's fine motor skill development?

This information is a general guide to help you determine if your child is progressing at the rate expected for his or her age. Please keep in mind that each child is unique and develops skills at their own rate. If you are concerned about your child's development, a physician or pediatric therapist may be able to assist with an evaluation.

To make an appointment with a pediatric therapist, call one of these locations:

Bon Air Therapy Center 804-323-9060
Brook Road Campus 804-228-5818
Fredericksburg Therapy Center 540-891-4485
Glen Allen Therapy Center 804-273-6656
Petersburg Therapy Center 804-733-7233
Stafford Therapy Center 540- 659-7337

Note: Occupational Therapy addresses problems related to cognitive, daily living, motor, sensory processing, social and visual/perceptual skill development.

Information provided by Sallie Tidman, OT/L, Director of Therapy Services, and Melanie Koch, Occupational Therapist.