10 Outdoor Activities That Promote Better Fine Motor Skills

Sometimes the best learning tools are free! The outdoors provide a rich sensory environment where kids can learn coordination as well as fine and gross motor skills. With a little creativity, nature offers opportunities for exploration and development, especially with spring on the way. 

Northeast Ohio has numerous parks, nature centers, and outdoor resources that are great for kids and families. Here are some suggestions to jump-start springtime fun. 

1. 1. Plant flowers and early spring vegetables. Use hands and/or garden tools to dig dirt and cover holes. Use tweezers or small tongs to put seeds in the holes.

1. 2. Use small pieces of chalk to draw or color on the driveway.

1. 3. Collect sticks to form letters or make pictures.

1. 4. Make collages with pebbles, grass, and leaves.

1. 5. Paint rocks

1. 6. Bring indoor games outside (e.g. jacks, pick-up sticks, card games, or checkers).

1. 7. Pick strawberries. The season begins in late May. Visit nearby orchards or farms to pick and eat these delicious treats.

1. 8. Dig for worms.

1. 9. Play in dirt and water and make mud pies

1. 10. Collect leaves, acorns, grass, tree bark, and rocks in a backpack.