A pincer grasp is referred to the use of the index finger and thumb pad to pick up small objects. The pincer grasp typically develops in babies by their first birthday Younger babies start off using their ring and pinky fingers to grasp objects and gradually develop the pincer grasp as a baby’s coordination improves on the thumb side of the hand. A fun way to encourage the pincer grasp is by placing smaller objects inside containers and allowing kids to get them out.
If you’re looking for Toy Ideas to promote the pincer grasp. Check out the 6 examples below.
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1) Wooden Bead Maze
Guiding the beads along the maze encourages kids to use their thumb and index fingers as they twist and turn them all the way to the other side of the tracks.
2) Spike the Hedgehog
Inserting pegs into pegboards requires kids to use their thumbs and index fingers. These pieces in this toy are easier to insert and pull out then many other peg board sets on the market which makes the activity more motivating and less frustrating for younger kids. The Hedgehog is an extra cute twist as well!.
3) Lacing
Lacing beads requires kids to hold the string and bead with the pincer grasp (just picture it). Lacing is also great hand eye coordination practice. There are many different bead sets to choose from so pick the ones your kid will enjoy most.
4) The Cheerios Play Book
This board book allows kids to practice using the pincer grasp in a functional way by picking up tiny cheerios pieces and placing them into missing spots in the book to fill in the pictures. So fun!
5) Wooden Peg Puzzles
Inset puzzles that come with small pegs at the top allow kids to practice matching and positioning puzzle pieces while practicing the pincer grasp.
6) Mobi Zippee
This unique silicone tactile toy is a fun fidget that allows kids to pull the cords back and forth while feeling different vibrations and textures. Mobi Zippee is an engaging toy that will hold a child’s curiosity as they practice using the pincer grasp to pull the cods.
