FM.B.31 USES A PINCER GRASP TO PICKUP A RAISIN

Up till this point your child has been using his fingers as a group when picking up small objects. Now that he has learned to isolate his index finger (FM.B.28) he will begin to carry this over into his grasping action.

How to Assess

Materials: A raisin or similar object on a contrasting surface.

Method: Direct your child’s attention to the raisin and direct him to ‘take’.

Score plus if your child uses a meat pincer grasp to pick the raisin (that is, he uses his thumb and the tip of his index finger in opposition, with the other fingers held up out of the way).

How to Teach

You may find that plenty of practice at picking up small objects (FM.B.18), combined with practice in isolating the forefinger (FM.B.28), will be enough to let your child discover the greater efficiency of the true pincer grasp.

Encourage him to watch as you pick things up, using an exaggerated pincer action.

If a physical prompt is necessary, gently clasp his remaining fingers back towards his palm, leaving only his thumb and forefinger free. This may be easier if you stand behind your child.

Play imitation games in which the tips of the forefinger and thumb are tapped together, or used to wiggle noses, ears and toes.

Playtime and Round-the-house Activities

If your child has learned to put (FM.D.36), scatter some corn flakes on his table and ask him to help you put them, one by one, into a bowl. Roll play-dough into little balls and let him pick them up and press them together. In the paddling pool, float small flowers on the water and ‘fish’ for them with your fingers!

Remembering and Extending

Please read the notes on the next skill in this sequence – FM.B.61