Have you ever wondered how we learn to ride a bike or hit a tennis ball with precision? Motor skills are the abilities that enable us to perform physical actions with precision and efficiency. From a young age, we learn motor skills through various activities, but where exactly do these skills develop? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the process of motor skill development, including the role of genetics, environment, and practice. We will also delve into the different stages of motor skill development and the impact of technology on motor skill acquisition. Get ready to discover the fascinating world of motor skills and how they shape our lives.

The Importance of Motor Skills in Child Development

Physical and Emotional Benefits of Motor Skills

Motor skills are a crucial aspect of child development, providing both physical and emotional benefits.

Physical Benefits of Motor Skills

Fine motor skills, such as grasping small objects and writing, help children to develop coordination and dexterity. Gross motor skills, such as running and jumping, promote physical fitness and balance. The development of motor skills also helps children to build confidence in their physical abilities, encouraging them to participate in sports and other physical activities.

Emotional Benefits of Motor Skills

The development of motor skills can also have a positive impact on a child’s emotional well-being. For example, children who have developed strong motor skills may feel more confident in social situations, as they are better able to express themselves through physical play. Additionally, motor skills can help children to regulate their emotions, as physical activity can release endorphins that promote feelings of happiness and relaxation.

It is important to note that the development of motor skills is not limited to childhood. Adults can also benefit from improving their motor skills, whether through physical exercise or therapy to recover from injury or disability.

Impact on Social and Cognitive Development

Motor skills play a crucial role in the overall development of a child. While it is widely recognized that motor skills are essential for physical growth and development, there is also evidence to suggest that they have a significant impact on social and cognitive development as well.

Improved Social Interactions

Developing motor skills can help children interact more effectively with their peers. This is because motor skills involve a range of physical movements that are essential for social interactions, such as reaching out to hold hands, kicking a ball, or dancing. These activities require coordination and communication with others, which can help children develop their social skills.

Enhanced Cognitive Development

Research has shown that motor skills are closely linked to cognitive development. When children engage in activities that require physical movement, such as playing with toys or building blocks, they are using their cognitive abilities to problem-solve and make decisions. This can help them develop their critical thinking skills, as well as their ability to plan and execute complex tasks.

Additionally, developing motor skills can also enhance a child’s memory and attention span. This is because these skills require concentration and focus, which can help children better retain information and improve their memory.

Improved Emotional Regulation

Motor skills can also have an impact on a child’s emotional regulation. This is because physical activity can help children release energy and reduce stress and anxiety. Activities such as running, jumping, and dancing can help children feel more relaxed and in control of their emotions.

In conclusion, motor skills play a critical role in the social, cognitive, and emotional development of children. By engaging in activities that require physical movement, children can improve their social interactions, cognitive abilities, and emotional regulation. As such, it is important for parents and caregivers to encourage children to participate in activities that develop their motor skills, such as sports, dance, and play.

Factors Influencing Motor Skill Development

Genetics and Heredity

Genetics and heredity play a significant role in the development of motor skills. The genetic makeup of an individual can influence their motor skill abilities from birth. Research has shown that certain genes are associated with motor skill development, such as the D1 and D2 genes, which are involved in the development of hand-eye coordination.

Moreover, genetics can also influence the susceptibility to motor skill disorders such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Parkinson’s disease. For example, research has found that individuals with a family history of dyslexia are more likely to develop the condition themselves.

Furthermore, heredity also plays a role in the development of motor skills. Environmental factors, such as nutrition and physical activity, can also affect motor skill development. For instance, a child born to parents who are avid runners may be more likely to develop strong motor skills related to running and other physical activities.

However, it is important to note that genetics and heredity are not the only factors that influence motor skill development. Environmental factors, such as education, access to physical activity, and cultural norms, can also play a significant role in the development of motor skills.

Overall, understanding the role of genetics and heredity in motor skill development can help parents, educators, and healthcare professionals provide appropriate support and interventions for individuals with motor skill difficulties.

Environmental Factors

Influence of the Physical Environment

The physical environment plays a crucial role in motor skill development. The presence of obstacles, uneven surfaces, and varying textures can impact an individual’s ability to develop motor skills. For instance, a child who grows up in a home with a backyard full of obstacles and uneven terrain may develop better motor skills compared to a child who primarily plays indoors.

Availability of Necessary Equipment

Having access to the necessary equipment for practicing motor skills is essential for their development. For example, a child who wants to learn how to ride a bike needs access to a bike, a safe place to ride, and appropriate safety gear. Without access to the necessary equipment, the child may not have the opportunity to practice and develop motor skills.

Role of Social Environment

The social environment can significantly impact motor skill development. Children who have positive social interactions and receive encouragement from family and peers are more likely to develop motor skills. On the other hand, children who face negative social interactions or a lack of support may be less likely to develop motor skills.

Importance of Parental Involvement

Parents play a vital role in their child’s motor skill development. By providing opportunities for their child to practice motor skills, parents can encourage their child’s development. Parents can also model good motor skills and provide feedback and encouragement to their child during playtime.

In conclusion, the environmental factors that surround an individual can significantly impact their motor skill development. By understanding the role of the physical environment, availability of necessary equipment, social environment, and parental involvement, individuals can create an environment that promotes motor skill development.

Early Childhood Experiences

Early childhood experiences play a crucial role in the development of motor skills. Research has shown that children’s motor development is influenced by a wide range of factors, including their genetic makeup, family environment, cultural background, and access to appropriate physical activity opportunities.

One of the most significant factors is the quality and quantity of motor experiences that children have during their early years. Children who engage in regular physical activity, such as running, jumping, and climbing, are more likely to develop strong motor skills. Additionally, children who are exposed to a variety of physical activities, including sports, dance, and outdoor play, are more likely to develop well-rounded motor skills.

Another important factor is the level of support and encouragement that children receive from their parents and caregivers. Parents who provide positive feedback and praise for their children’s efforts, rather than focusing on performance, can help foster a love of physical activity and promote healthy motor development.

Cultural background and access to appropriate physical activity opportunities can also impact motor skill development. Children who grow up in cultures that value physical activity and have access to safe and accessible play spaces are more likely to engage in regular physical activity and develop strong motor skills.

In conclusion, early childhood experiences play a critical role in the development of motor skills. Providing children with a variety of motor experiences, positive support and encouragement, and access to appropriate physical activity opportunities can help promote healthy motor development and lay the foundation for a lifetime of physical activity.

The Stages of Motor Skill Development

Infancy and Early Childhood

Motor skill development begins in infancy and continues through early childhood. During this stage, infants and young children are learning how to control their bodies and move in response to their environment. The development of motor skills during this stage is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and experience.

In infancy, newborns begin to develop reflexes, such as the grasping reflex and the startle reflex. These reflexes are innate and are essential for survival. As infants grow and develop, they begin to learn how to control their movements and coordinate their actions.

During early childhood, children continue to develop their motor skills through play and exploration. They learn how to crawl, walk, and run, and develop fine motor skills such as grasping and manipulating objects. Children also begin to develop coordination and balance, which are important for participating in physical activities.

In addition to physical development, motor skill development during infancy and early childhood is also influenced by cognitive and social factors. Children learn through observation and imitation, and their interactions with others can impact their motor skill development.

Overall, the development of motor skills during infancy and early childhood is a complex process that involves the interaction of multiple factors. Understanding the stages of motor skill development can help parents and caregivers provide appropriate support and encouragement for young children as they learn to move and coordinate their actions.

Preschool Years

During the preschool years, children undergo significant development in their motor skills. This period is characterized by rapid physical growth, and children are continually exploring and discovering their surroundings. The development of motor skills during this stage is influenced by various factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and individual differences.

One of the most critical aspects of motor skill development during the preschool years is the establishment of fundamental movement patterns. These patterns form the foundation for more complex movements that children will develop later in life. Some of the fundamental movement patterns that children learn during this stage include:

• Locomotion: Children learn to walk, run, and jump during this stage. They also develop balance and coordination, which are essential for these movements.
• Grasping: Children learn to grasp objects using their fingers and hands. This skill is essential for manipulating toys and other objects and is a precursor to writing.
• Throwing and catching: Children learn to throw and catch objects during this stage. They develop the ability to judge distance and accuracy, which are critical skills for many sports and activities.
• Balance: Children learn to balance on one foot, stand on their tiptoes, and do handstands. These movements help develop their sense of body awareness and coordination.

In addition to these fundamental movement patterns, children also develop fine motor skills during the preschool years. These skills involve the use of small muscle movements in the hands, fingers, and wrists. Examples of fine motor skills that children develop during this stage include:

• Drawing: Children learn to draw simple shapes and pictures using crayons, markers, and paint. This skill requires them to hold the writing tool correctly and move it in a controlled manner.
• Puzzles: Children learn to manipulate puzzle pieces to fit together. This skill requires them to use their fingers to grasp and maneuver the pieces.
• Play-dough: Children learn to manipulate play-dough to create different shapes and designs. This skill requires them to use their fingers to squeeze, pinch, and roll the dough.

Overall, the development of motor skills during the preschool years is crucial for children’s physical, social, and emotional growth. As children continue to explore and interact with their environment, they develop the skills necessary to participate in a wide range of activities and enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle.

Elementary School Age

During the elementary school age, children undergo significant development in their motor skills. This period is characterized by the emergence of new abilities and the refinement of existing ones. In this section, we will explore the key motor skill developments that typically occur during the elementary school years.

Gross Motor Skills

Gross motor skills involve the large muscle movements that control the body’s movements, such as running, jumping, and throwing. During the elementary school years, children continue to develop these skills through participating in various physical activities.

• Running: By the age of 7, most children have developed the coordination and endurance necessary for efficient running. They become more adept at using their arms and legs in a coordinated manner, resulting in smoother and more efficient movements.
• Jumping: Children also refine their jumping abilities during this period. They learn to jump further and higher, incorporating more complex movements such as tuck jumps and long jumps.
• Throwing: The development of throwing skills is crucial during this stage. Children learn to throw objects with greater accuracy and power, which lays the foundation for sports involving throwing, such as basketball and baseball.

Fine Motor Skills

Fine motor skills involve the coordination of small muscle movements, such as grasping objects, writing, and manipulating small toys. These skills are developed through various activities that require manual dexterity and precision.

• Grasping: By the age of 6, most children have developed the ability to perform a grasping motion with their fingers, allowing them to manipulate objects more effectively.
• Writing: As children progress through elementary school, they continue to develop their writing skills. They learn to form letters and words more accurately, which improves their overall writing ability.
• Manipulating small objects: Children’s fine motor skills are also developed through activities such as building with blocks, manipulating puzzles, and playing with small toys. These activities help refine their hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity.

Coordination and Balance

Coordination and balance are crucial aspects of motor skill development. Children learn to integrate their movements and control their bodies more effectively during this period.

• Coordination: Activities such as skipping, catching, and dribbling require the integration of multiple motor skills. Children develop their coordination abilities through practice and repetition, enabling them to perform these actions more smoothly and efficiently.
• Balance: Children also learn to maintain their balance during this period. They develop the ability to adjust their body position and use their muscles to stabilize themselves, which is essential for participating in various physical activities.

In conclusion, the elementary school age is a critical period for motor skill development. Children refine their gross and fine motor skills, improve their coordination and balance, and become more adept at using their bodies to perform various tasks. These developments provide a strong foundation for continued motor skill development throughout adolescence and adulthood.

Supporting Motor Skill Development in Children

Encouraging Physical Activity

Encouraging physical activity is an essential part of supporting motor skill development in children. Physical activity can be any form of exercise or movement that gets the body moving, such as running, jumping, climbing, or dancing. Here are some ways to encourage physical activity in children:

• Provide Opportunities for Play: Children learn best through play, so provide them with opportunities to engage in different forms of physical activity. This can include playing games, participating in sports, or engaging in outdoor activities like hiking or biking.
• Make it Fun: Physical activity should be enjoyable for children, so make it fun by incorporating their favorite activities or toys into the mix. You can also make it a game by setting up challenges or races.
• Set Examples: Children learn by example, so set a good example by engaging in physical activity yourself. Take walks, go for runs, or participate in sports with your child.
• Incorporate Movement into Daily Routines: Physical activity doesn’t have to be separate from daily routines. Incorporate movement into daily routines, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a walk during lunch breaks.
• Provide Variety: Provide children with a variety of physical activities to keep them engaged and interested. This can include team sports, individual sports, dance, yoga, or even martial arts.
• Be Patient: Motor skill development takes time, so be patient with your child as they learn and grow. Encourage them to keep trying and to have fun while they do it.

Overall, encouraging physical activity is a great way to support motor skill development in children. By providing opportunities for play, making it fun, setting examples, incorporating movement into daily routines, providing variety, and being patient, you can help your child develop the skills they need to be active and healthy for life.

Creating Opportunities for Play and Exploration

One of the most effective ways to support the development of motor skills in children is by providing them with ample opportunities for play and exploration. Play is a crucial aspect of a child’s life as it helps them learn, grow, and develop important skills, including motor skills. Here are some ways in which creating opportunities for play and exploration can help in the development of motor skills in children:

• Exploring the Environment: Children have a natural curiosity and love for exploration. By providing them with a safe and stimulating environment, you can encourage them to explore and learn new things. This can include setting up obstacle courses, providing toys that encourage movement, and creating opportunities for sensory play.
• Active Play: Active play involves physical activity and can help children develop their motor skills. It can include activities such as running, jumping, climbing, and dancing. Active play also helps children build confidence, develop social skills, and learn how to work together as a team.
• Creative Play: Creative play encourages children to use their imagination and be creative. It can include activities such as drawing, painting, building with blocks, and creating with clay. Creative play helps children develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving skills.
• Sensory Play: Sensory play involves exploring different textures, smells, tastes, and sounds. It can include activities such as playing with mud, sand, water, and playdough. Sensory play helps children develop their sense of touch, explore their environment, and learn about cause and effect.
• Physical Activity: Physical activity, such as sports, gymnastics, and martial arts, can help children develop their motor skills and physical fitness. These activities also provide children with a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem.

In conclusion, creating opportunities for play and exploration is an effective way to support the development of motor skills in children. By providing a safe and stimulating environment, encouraging active play, creative play, sensory play, and physical activity, parents and caregivers can help children develop the necessary skills to navigate their world with confidence and ease.

Fostering Positive Reinforcement and Feedback

Motor skill development in children is greatly influenced by the environment they grow up in. Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in shaping a child’s motor development. One of the most effective ways to support motor skill development is by fostering positive reinforcement and feedback.

The Importance of Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for encouraging and reinforcing positive behaviors in children. It involves praising and rewarding children for their efforts and accomplishments. Positive reinforcement can help build children’s confidence and self-esteem, which in turn can motivate them to continue developing their motor skills.

The Role of Feedback in Motor Skill Development

Feedback is another essential component of supporting motor skill development in children. Feedback can help children understand what they are doing well and what they need to work on. It can also help children learn how to adjust their movements and improve their technique.

Tips for Fostering Positive Reinforcement and Feedback

To foster positive reinforcement and feedback, parents and caregivers can try the following tips:

• Be specific: When praising children, be specific about what they did well. For example, instead of saying “good job,” say “I loved how you pushed through that last rep, even when it got tough.”
• Use reinforcers: Reinforcers are rewards that children value, such as stickers, small toys, or extra screen time. Reinforcers can help motivate children to continue practicing and improving their motor skills.
• Provide constructive feedback: When giving feedback, focus on what children are doing well and what they can improve on. For example, instead of saying “you’re doing it wrong,” say “I noticed you were leaning too far forward. Try keeping your body straight to improve your balance.”
• Encourage self-reflection: Encourage children to reflect on their own performance and identify areas for improvement. This can help them develop a growth mindset and take ownership of their motor skill development.

By fostering positive reinforcement and feedback, parents and caregivers can play a critical role in supporting motor skill development in children.

Overcoming Challenges in Motor Skill Development

Identifying and Addressing Delays or Disorders

Identifying and addressing delays or disorders is an essential aspect of overcoming challenges in motor skill development. Delays or disorders can affect a child’s ability to develop motor skills, and it is crucial to identify and address these issues as early as possible.

Some common motor skill development delays or disorders include:

• Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD): DCD is a disorder that affects the development of motor skills, making it difficult for children to perform daily activities that require motor coordination.
• Cerebral Palsy: Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects movement and muscle tone. It can cause a range of motor skill development delays and impairments.
• Down Syndrome: Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that can affect a child’s motor skill development, cognitive abilities, and overall physical growth.

It is essential to identify these delays or disorders as early as possible, as early intervention can significantly improve a child’s motor skill development. Parents and caregivers should look out for signs of motor skill development delays, such as difficulty crawling, walking, or performing other motor activities within the expected age range.

If a delay or disorder is suspected, it is essential to consult with a pediatrician or a specialist, such as a physical therapist or occupational therapist. These professionals can perform evaluations and assessments to determine the severity of the delay or disorder and recommend appropriate interventions and therapies.

Interventions and therapies may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other specialized interventions designed to improve motor skill development. Early intervention can help children develop motor skills more effectively and enhance their overall physical and cognitive development.

Supporting Children with Special Needs

Children with special needs may face unique challenges in developing motor skills. It is important to provide them with the necessary support and resources to help them achieve their full potential. Here are some strategies that can be helpful:

1. Early Intervention: Early intervention is crucial in supporting children with special needs. Identifying and addressing motor skill development delays as early as possible can help prevent further difficulties later on.
2. Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy can be beneficial for children with special needs. It can help them develop the necessary skills to perform daily activities and can also provide them with adaptive equipment and strategies to improve their motor skills.
3. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can also be helpful for children with special needs. It can help them improve their strength, balance, and coordination, which are essential for motor skill development.
4. Adaptive Equipment: Children with special needs may require adaptive equipment to help them perform activities. This equipment can range from simple items like splints or braces to more complex devices like wheelchairs or walkers.
5. Inclusive Environment: Providing an inclusive environment that supports children with special needs can also be beneficial. This can include adapting activities and providing accommodations to help them participate fully in physical education classes and other activities.

By implementing these strategies, parents, educators, and therapists can support children with special needs in developing their motor skills and promote their overall development and well-being.

Tips for Improving Motor Skills in Children

Practice Makes Perfect

Providing ample opportunities for practice is essential for motor skill development in children. Encourage your child to engage in activities that require physical movement, such as sports, dancing, or playing with toys that promote coordination. The more they practice, the better their motor skills will become.

Break Down Tasks into Smaller Steps

Breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can help children overcome challenges and develop motor skills. For example, if your child is struggling to ride a bike, start by teaching them how to balance, then pedal, and finally, how to steer. By breaking down the task into smaller steps, your child will feel more confident and less overwhelmed, which can lead to improved motor skills.

Provide Positive Reinforcement

Offering positive reinforcement and encouragement can help motivate children to continue practicing and improving their motor skills. Praise your child’s efforts and progress, even if they are small. This positive feedback will help boost their confidence and self-esteem, which can ultimately lead to better motor skill development.

Incorporate Fun Activities

Incorporating fun activities that promote motor skill development can make the learning process more enjoyable for children. Engage your child in activities that they find enjoyable, such as dancing to their favorite music or playing a sport they love. This will not only help improve their motor skills but also keep them engaged and motivated to continue practicing.

Use Visual Aids

Using visual aids, such as videos or diagrams, can help children better understand the mechanics of motor skills and how to perform them correctly. This can be especially helpful for children who are visual learners. By providing visual aids, you can help your child better understand the concepts they are learning and improve their motor skills more effectively.

The Importance of Ongoing Research and Development

Ongoing research and development play a crucial role in the development of motor skills. This section will explore the significance of ongoing research and development in motor skill development.

Advancements in Motor Skill Development

One of the primary reasons why ongoing research and development are essential is that it leads to advancements in motor skill development. Researchers and scientists continue to study the brain and its connection to motor skills, which leads to new discoveries and insights. These insights can then be used to develop new techniques and methods for improving motor skills.

Personalized Approach to Motor Skill Development

Ongoing research and development also enable a more personalized approach to motor skill development. As researchers learn more about the brain and its connection to motor skills, they can develop techniques and methods that are tailored to individual needs. This personalized approach can lead to more effective and efficient motor skill development.

Identifying and Addressing Challenges

Ongoing research and development also help to identify and address challenges in motor skill development. Researchers can study individuals with motor skill challenges to understand the underlying causes and develop methods to overcome these challenges. This can lead to more effective interventions and treatments for individuals with motor skill challenges.

Continuous Improvement

Finally, ongoing research and development enable continuous improvement in motor skill development. As new techniques and methods are developed, they can be tested and refined. This leads to an ongoing cycle of improvement, where new discoveries and insights are used to develop better techniques and methods for motor skill development.

In conclusion, ongoing research and development are essential for the development of motor skills. Advancements in motor skill development, personalized approaches, identifying and addressing challenges, and continuous improvement are all benefits of ongoing research and development in motor skill development.

Future Directions for Motor Skill Development in Children

Fostering Motor Skill Development in Children with Disabilities

• Incorporating technology to enhance motor skill development, such as robotics and virtual reality.
• Collaborating with occupational therapists and other specialists to develop individualized intervention plans.
• Utilizing adaptive equipment and modifications to create accessible environments for children with disabilities.

Encouraging Motor Skill Development in Underserved and Low-Income Communities

• Implementing programs that provide access to sports and physical activities for children in underserved communities.
• Partnering with local organizations to offer free or low-cost motor skill development classes and workshops.
• Advocating for increased funding for physical education programs in schools.

Supporting Motor Skill Development in a Digital Age

• Promoting the importance of physical activity and motor skill development in a technology-driven world.
• Encouraging parents and educators to incorporate technology in a balanced and mindful way to support motor skill development.
• Researching the effects of screen time on motor skill development and finding ways to mitigate potential negative effects.

Addressing the Impact of Motor Skill Development on Mental Health

• Investigating the relationship between motor skill development and mental health, such as the potential benefits of physical activity on reducing stress and anxiety.
• Collaborating with mental health professionals to develop comprehensive intervention plans that address both motor skill development and mental health.
• Increasing awareness and education about the importance of motor skill development for overall well-being.

FAQs

1. What are motor skills?

Motor skills refer to the ability of the body to perform physical movements in response to internal or external stimuli. These skills involve the coordination of different muscle groups and the brain’s ability to control and direct movements. Motor skills can be broadly classified into two categories: gross motor skills and fine motor skills. Gross motor skills involve movements of the entire body or large muscle groups, such as walking, running, or jumping. Fine motor skills, on the other hand, involve movements of smaller muscle groups, such as those in the hands and fingers, and include activities like buttoning a shirt or typing on a keyboard.

2. Where do motor skills develop?

Motor skills develop in the brain and the nervous system. The brain is the primary controller of motor skills, and it sends signals to the nervous system to coordinate the movements of different muscle groups. The nervous system, in turn, sends signals to the muscles to contract and relax, resulting in physical movement. Motor skills develop through a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including experiences and practice. They develop primarily during childhood, with some development continuing into early adulthood.

3. How do motor skills develop in children?

Motor skills develop in children through a process of repeated practice and refinement. As children engage in physical activities, their brains and nervous systems learn to coordinate the movements necessary to perform those activities. This process is often referred to as “muscle memory.” Children who engage in regular physical activity, such as sports or dance, tend to develop stronger motor skills than those who do not. Additionally, children who receive structured instruction and feedback on their movements tend to develop motor skills more quickly and effectively than those who do not.

4. Can motor skills be improved in adults?

Yes, motor skills can be improved in adults through regular practice and physical activity. While adults may not develop new motor skills as quickly as children, they can still improve their existing motor skills through targeted practice and instruction. Adults can also work to improve their motor skills by engaging in regular physical activity, such as exercise or sports, and by receiving structured instruction and feedback on their movements. Additionally, adults can work with physical therapists or other healthcare professionals to address any underlying medical conditions or injuries that may be affecting their motor skills.

5. Are some people naturally better at motor skills than others?

There is some evidence to suggest that certain factors, such as genetics and early childhood experiences, may influence the development of motor skills. However, it is important to note that motor skills are not fixed traits and can be improved through practice and instruction. Additionally, motor skills can be affected by a variety of factors, including physical health, fitness level, and overall well-being. As such, it is possible for individuals to improve their motor skills over time with targeted practice and instruction.

EYFS – Physical development – Fine motor skills