Helping a child to improve their distal finger control is one way to help improve handwriting. Distal Finger Control Exercise for Use in HandwritingThere are many ways to encourage motor movements of the digits vs. using larger muscle groups. Opening of the thumb webspace, finger isolation, pincer grasp and pinch grip strength, intrinsic muscle development, thumb IP joint flexion, and arch development are key to ensuring functional use of the distal fingers in tasks like handwriting.
This simple activity is one way to develop distal finger control for use in manipulating a pencil.
We used just two materials, making it an easy and frugal way to develop motor skills: Paper reinforcement stickers and a pencil
Have your child stick the labels to a piece of paper. A colored piece of paper like cardstock is perfect for it's bright and bold colors. Peeling the stickers is a great way to encourage fine motor development of neat pincer grasp.