Category Archives: Pencil Grasp Development

25 Tips to Help Your Child Get Kindergarten Ready + Free Kindergarten Readiness Checklist

As a pediatric occupational therapist, I’ve worked with countless families to help children build the fine motor, emotional, and pre-academic foundations they need to thrive in school. Kindergarten readiness isn’t just about knowing letters and numbers—it’s also about having the motor coordination, independence, and confidence to participate, learn, and grow.

In this post, I’m sharing 25 practical, developmentally appropriate tips to help your preschooler prepare for kindergarten success—starting now! From pencil grasp to scissor skills, social development to routines, you’ll find easy ways to support your child at home and make the transition smoother for everyone.

It’s Here! The Ultimate Pre-Writing Resource Just Got Even Better!

I’m beyond excited to officially announce the launch of Fun Strokes Second Edition, a powerful upgrade to the original pre-writing resource that’s already helped countless kids build the fine motor foundations they need to succeed.

Whether you’re a pediatric OT, a teacher, or a parent supporting your child’s early learning journey, this new edition was made with you (and your little learners!) in mind.

When Should My Child Be Able to Write Their Name? What You Should Know About Readiness First

s your child getting ready for kindergarten? You may be wondering: Should they already know how to write their name? While it’s a common milestone parents look for, name-writing success is less about age and more about readiness—and that starts with strong pre-writing and fine motor foundations.

🌸 Strengthen Pre-Writing Skills with This FREE Spring Poke Activity! 🌸

Spring has sprung—and so has a brand-new freebie perfect for building fine motor foundations in a fun and engaging way!

I’m excited to share the Spring Poke Activity, a FREE download featuring eight cheerful, skill-packed templates that kids will love. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist, this activity makes supporting essential developmental skills through play easy.

St. Patty’s Day Freebie Fun – Help the Leprechaun Collect His Gold! 🍀🌈

Looking for a festive and engaging way to build fine motor and visual skills with your little learners? My St. Patrick’s Day Freebie is packed with fun and skill-building activities that will have kids reaching, grasping, and moving while enjoying a little holiday magic!

A Quick and Easy Way to Improve Pencil Grasp

A Quick and Easy Way to Improve Pencil Grasp

Pencil Grasp Development: What to Expect

Pencil Grasp Development…What to Expect

Benefits of Working on a Vertical Surface

There are many reasons to use a vertical surface like an easel or whiteboard when working with children. Your child will attain so much more by simply changing tabletop activities to vertical surface activities. In this post I share the many benefits your child will gain.