Pincer Grasp Snacktime
Here's What To Do
Play a quick game to encourage me to use "pincer grasp." Pincer grasp is when I pick up an object using only my thumb and index finger (without help from my palm).
Place one small piece of food (like: cereal, snack puffs, peas, or blueberries) in a small bowl. Place a second small empty bowl next to the food bowl.
Show me how to use my pincer grasp to move the food from one bowl to another, and encourage me to try it. When I successfully move one piece, place a new piece in the first bowl.
Repeat for as long as I show interest, and celebrate by eating the snack when we're done playing!
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Sit me in my high chair, and sit at the table with me.
Engage:
- "Watch Mami do it. I'm going to pinch the cereal like this, pick it up, and move it to this bowl. Can Lucia do it too?"
- "Here's another pea! Can you move it into the other bowl?"
Encourage:
- At first, I might try to grasp items using my whole hand. Gently correct me and encourage me to only use my pointer finger and thumb.
- Celebrate my effort, like: "This is hard work! You're doing such a great job learning to pick up the puff."
Reflect:
- Am I able to pick up small items using "pincer grasp?"
Not quite ready?
Continue to provide opportunities for me to practice picking up small (safe) objects. I will develop more fine motor control over time.
Ready for more?
Let me practice coloring with a thick crayon. This helps me learn how to use other kinds of grips to hold things.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to pick up small objects with only their thumb and index finger, without using their palm to help.