ARK's Blog

Finger isolation is the ability to move certain fingers independently from the rest of your fingers.  It's an important skill in a variety of everyday activities, such as pointing, activating toys, pressing the button in the elevator, dialing a phone, writing with an efficient grasp, etc.  And also for more complex tasks such as typing or playing the piano. .  .  …

Simply put, bilateral coordination is the ability to use both sides of your body together in an organized, coordinated manner.  Most children pick up this skill naturally, but sometimes there can be a disconnect.  Why is this a problem?  Most of what we do on a daily basis involves bilateral coordination: tying shoelaces, typing, opening a water bottle, playing, writing, etc. &nb …

Stacking toys - Oh how I love thee!  Let me count (and stack) the ways.   Don't be deceived - these seemingly simple toys pack a big punch when it comes to early learning development.  How do stacking/nesting toys aid in the development of fine motor and language skills?  Here's how you can play to learn with these classic toys: . . FINE MOTOR SKILLS Ther …

Make your own "piggy bank!"  This DIY fine motor activity involves just two easy steps: 1.  Cut a slit into the lid of any old food container (this is an almond can). 2.  Use poker chips, play money, or real money to push into the bank. . . Unlike store-bought piggy banks that have a wide slot for coins, the thin slit here provides resistance when you push items throu …