Muscle strength of the hands and fingers increases as children grow and participate in everyday activities.

Hand and finger strength is important as it is required for many everyday activities such as doing up buttons and zips, climbing monkey bars or cutting up a piece of steak at mealtimes. It also helps to develop the endurance to complete activities such as writing a full page. Grip strength refers to whole hand strength. Pinch strength involves the thumb and index finger (and the middle finger if required).

This activity will encourage your child to exercise a variety of muscles in his hands, legs and shoulders!

Steps:

1. Attach a roll of art paper to a small outdoor kid's slide

2. Collect an assortment of textured balls and different color paints in bowls

3. Have your child dip the ball into the paint bowl(s) and roll, throw or squeeze the ball onto the art paper!

4. The more the mess, the more you enjoy!