Discovering Fine Motor Skills through Play: Peek-a-Boo and Dressing

As a precursor to dressing skills, peek-a-boo is one of the earliest play activities that can be used to develop fine motor skills in children. In occupational therapy, we often use physical movements needed for dressing as part of a simulated game instead of actually taking clothes on and off. This approach allows us to target specific skills while keeping things fun and engaging.

In this context, peek-a-boo is an excellent way to encourage children to develop their fine motor skills through playful interactions. The physical movements involved in peek-a-boo, such as lifting and lowering the hands or covering and uncovering one's face, help children practice the necessary hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity required for dressing.

While dressing skills are essential for daily living, not every setting or session is appropriate for having a child get dressed or undressed. However, with creative adaptations like peek-a-boo, occupational therapists can still target these skills in a way that's both enjoyable and effective.

In addition to peek-a-boo, there are many other ways to encourage fine motor skill development through play. For example, using playdough, puzzles, or building blocks can help children practice their hand-eye coordination and dexterity. By incorporating these types of activities into daily routines and sessions, occupational therapists can support the overall development of a child's fine motor skills.

Ultimately, discovering fine motor skills through play is an essential part of childhood development. By using creative approaches like peek-a-boo, occupational therapists can help children build the foundation they need to master dressing skills and other essential daily living activities.

Peek little peanut clothing