How does your child grasp???

 

Stages of Pencil Grasp

By: Kristin Miller, M. Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction

CEO/Founder eTeachingMe

First we need to understand that at every stage, every child is different and will develop at a variety of rates.  It is important to continue to work with your child at each stage of pencil grasp development, do not worry if they meet the "common grasp stage" or not; consistency is key to helping any child learn and grow!  Please enjoy reading, and keep up the hard work parents, as your child develops at their own pace, and own unique capabilities!

1.  READ:  Fine and Gross Motor Development Chart so you can have a clear understanding of expectations for your child's age.

 2.  Please view the Development Stages of Pencil Grasp chart below.  This gives you a basic understanding of what to work on and expect out of your child at each developmental stage.

 3. View the picture examples of my children below, you can see what is normal and relate it to the basic understanding of where your child is at in their pencil grasp development.  This helps you to see first hand, what to expect.  

Pre-Toddler Stage

Infant - Fisted Grasp

1 years old

 

Pre-Toddler Stage

Full Fisted Grasp

2 years old

Toddler Stage
Palmer Grasp
Grasps with hand and moves with elbow
2 1/2 years

Immature 5-Finger Grasp

Preschool Stage

3 years old

 

Pre-Kindergarten Stage

Mature 3-Finger Grasp

Starting to use and develop

3 1/2 years old