When Holding a Crayon Becomes a Struggle, It Might Be Fine Motor Challenges
- Jul 11
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 16
Everyday Tasks may Feel Frustrating for Your Child
You may notice your child struggling to hold a pencil, button a shirt or use scissors. Tasks that other children seem to manage with ease may feel slow or discouraging for your little one. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic in Bukit Timah, we support families in recognising and addressing fine motor challenges with calm, professional guidance.
Fine motor skills are the small movements we make with our hands and fingers. These skills are key to writing, feeding, dressing and playing. When these skills do not develop as expected, it can affect a child’s confidence, independence and school readiness. Early support can help your child make progress in a way that feels natural and empowering.
What Are Fine Motor Challenges
Fine motor challenges involve difficulties with coordination, strength or control in the hands and fingers. These challenges may appear in:
Handwriting or colouring
Using cutlery or holding a cup
Fastening clothes, buttons or zippers
Manipulating toys or small objects
Cutting, pasting or crafting
Fine motor delays may occur on their own or alongside developmental conditions such as dyspraxia, ADHD or autism spectrum disorders.
What You Might Notice
Parents often begin to notice differences when their child starts preschool or primary school. Here are some common signs.
Avoidance of Fine Tasks
Your child may avoid drawing, colouring or crafts, or ask for help with simple self-care tasks like tying shoelaces or opening containers.
Clumsy or Awkward Movements
You may notice difficulty with grasping small objects or an awkward pencil grip. Their movements may appear less precise than peers.
Frustration or Low Confidence
Children who struggle with fine motor tasks often feel discouraged. They may express reluctance or seem upset during activities that require hand control.
How We Support Your Child at Joyful Seeds
At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, we understand how fine motor difficulties can affect both daily routines and emotional wellbeing. Dr Charmaine Teo works closely with families to assess, guide and support children through a personalised approach.
Your child’s care may include:
A detailed developmental history and observation of fine motor skills
Assessment of school readiness, coordination and hand function
Referrals to on-site occupational therapy for targeted support
Advice on simple home strategies and school accommodations
Ongoing monitoring to track progress and adjust goals as needed
Dr Charmaine Teo brings a calm, thoughtful approach to every consultation. She partners with families to create a supportive plan that respects each child’s pace and potential.
Supporting You and Your Child With Confidence
We know how discouraging it can be to see your child struggle with everyday tasks. At Joyful Seeds, we guide parents through each step of understanding their child’s needs without fear or pressure. We help you:
Recognise your child’s unique strengths
Understand what supports may be helpful
Create positive routines that build skill and confidence
Connect with therapists and educators who share your goals
Every child develops in their own time. With understanding and support, children with fine motor challenges can grow into capable, confident learners and helpers.
Let Us Support Your Child’s Growth
If your child finds it hard to manage tasks that involve hand or finger control, we welcome you to visit us. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic in Bukit Timah, we offer comprehensive care that supports fine motor development with compassion and clarity. Together, we can help your child build the skills they need for a confident, independent future.
