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How to Improve Hand-Eye Coordination

How to improve hand-eye coordination. A baby reaches for a bright red toy car on a shelf.

Did you know that your eyes help you not only to see but also to move? It takes less than a fraction of a section for information from your eyes to translate to your limbs. This hand-eye coordination is critical to daily living. Are you looking to help your kiddo improve their ADHD hand-eye coordination? You’re in the right place! Hand-eye coordination is essential for everyday tasks. And guess what? It can be fun too!

Catching

So, why is catching so important for kids? First, it builds focus and concentration. Your child learns to track objects with their eyes. And they get better at predicting movement. Second, it helps with sports and playtime. You know how much kids love playing catch! It’s a vital skill for any budding athlete.

Easy Ways to Get Started

Wondering how to improve hand-eye coordination through catching? Start small. Use soft objects like socks or bean bags. This way, your little one feels safe and confident. Next up: balls of various sizes! Begin with bigger ones and gradually move to smaller ones.

Let’s add some excitement! Try a hot potato-style passing game. Pass the object quickly around in a circle – no holding on too long! Or challenge them even more: Catch with one hand or while hopping on one foot. Now we’re talking fun AND skill-building!

How to improve hand-eye coordination. A little boy and his father play catch with a small basketball.
Read more: ADHD and Clumsiness

Copycat Drawing

Next up is copycat drawing. Why is it great for kids? It improves fine motor skills and attention span!

So, how to improve ADHD hand eye coordination with copycat drawing?

Here’s a step-by-step process:

  1. Choose an image (simple yet engaging).
  2. Have your child observe the image closely.
  3. Encourage them to replicate it on their paper.

Remember: creativity is key! Choose age-appropriate images that excite your kiddo! And try different tools like crayons, markers, or even finger paints.

Read More: What are Fine Motor Skills?

Popping Bubbles

What’s so magical about bubbles? They teach visual tracking AND motor skills! Win-win! Plus, they’re perfect for sensory seekers (hello, bubble lovers!). Bubble time can happen anywhere: Outdoors in the sun or indoors on a rainy day (just use a mat). Just grab some wands or use a bubble machine if you want non-stop action!    

Are you ready for some bubbly challenges? We’ll show you how to improve ADHD hand eye coordination using just your index finger! Or pop those bubbles by clapping hands together or stomping them underfoot. Trust us; these simple moves will bring hours of joy and learning!

How to improve hand-eye coordination. A little girl blows bubbles towards the camera.
Read more: 5 Music Therapy Benefits for Kids With Special Needs

Water Play    

Water play isn’t just splish-splash fun – we promise! Pouring, scooping & squirting actions all help develop those essential skills. Ready to dive into water play? Try sensory bins filled with H2O and various toys. Or invest in a cool water table – loads of fun guaranteed!

Still need some inspiration? Sponge relay races are perfect for group activities. And don’t forget the classic toy fishing game – hook, line & sinker! 

Targeted Reaching

Targeted reaching is an excellent way to enhance spatial awareness and precision, which are essential for daily tasks.

Here are some fun and effective strategies to improve hand-eye coordination:

  • Hang objects: Hang soft toys or colorful scarves at different heights for your child to grab or pull, encouraging precise reaching movements.
  • Obstacle courses: Create obstacle courses with various challenges that require different reaches, such as reaching high, low, or side-to-side. This helps your child develop coordination and adaptability.
  • Scavenger hunts: Engage your child in scavenger hunts where they can search for hidden treasures. This activity promotes visual tracking, hand-eye coordination, and attention to detail.
  • DIY racetracks: Construct a DIY racetrack with twists and turns that require your child to navigate with their hands. This activity enhances hand-eye coordination, motor planning, and dexterity.

Remember to keep these activities engaging and fun for your child, fixing the level to match their abilities. Regular practice and playful exploring will lead to improved adhd hand eye coordination skills over time.

Goally | Fun Games that Build Motor Skills & Manage Screen Time 

Looking for ways to improve your child’s finger dexterity skills while also keeping screen time manageable? Try Goally’s skill building tablet for kids— it has a bunch of fun & motor planning games!

Our “Balloons” & Graffiti Street Apps are all about building motor skills in a fun, interactive way. Kids learn to “pop the balloons” or draw dozens of digital art designs while simultaneously developing the essential skills needed to use AAC and other communication tools. It’s a blast for them and a win for you!

You now have a ton of hand-eye coordination activities. Remember, the key is to make these activities enjoyable for both you and your child. By including these activities into your routine, you can help your child improve their hand-eye coordination skills while having fun together. Remember: practice makes perfect. And most importantly, make it fun for you and your little one.

This post was originally published on 04/04/2023. It was updated on 10/20/2023.

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