Ask your child to pick up objects and place them into containers. Objects you could use include beads, blocks, marbles, buttons, straws and beans. Giving a variety of objects ensures that students can grasp and move objects that very in shape and size. Make sure you have the child place objects into containers of varying sizes as well, such as a jar, mug and cup.
Have the child stack objects. Using some of the same objects as in Step 1 helps children to feel more comfortable. Blocks, buttons, as well as coins and cards, can be used to check students' fine motor abilities.
Assess the student's abilities to twist manipulatives. Ask the child to unscrew the lid of a jar. Having the child open an array of different jars is also helpful here. Also, have the child screw back on the lids. Have the child screw and unscrew nuts and bolts as well.
Use daily tasks such as getting dressed to check fine motor functioning. Watch to see if your child can zip their jacket. Also, check to see if they can hook and unhook clothing and other items. You should also check that your child can button and unbutton.
Check the student's tying abilities. Have the child string beads onto a shoelace. Check to see if the child can tie their shoes. You can say the steps to help them, but watch to see if they can move their fingers in order to tie the shoe. You can also ask your child to tie a box with ribbon or string.
Ask your child to cut for you. Give them scissors and ask them to cut out traced objects. The objects they are cutting out should have both curved and straight lines. They could also practice cutting out with cloth instead of paper.
Check the student's ability to hold and use a pencil. First, see if they can roll a pencil between their thumb and fingers without dropping it. Then see if your child can trace shapes, pictures or objects. Also, check that they can copy objects and/or shapes.
Assess other fine motor skills for use in the classroom. Ask your child to use a stapler and remove a staple from paper. Also, see that your child can place a paper clip onto a piece of paper. Check if they can place a clothespin on the edge of a container or box.