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Little fingers workshop

Time: 15 min Checked: 10 August 2026 Down syndrome

Goal

Develop fine motor skills — the basis for speech, writing and self-care.

What you need

Large tube pasta or large beads · A shoelace or thick string · A box with holes

Important:Play only together — small objects must never be left with the child unsupervised.

How to do it

  1. Show how to thread pasta onto the lace: 'Like this — into the hole!'
  2. Let them try; guide the hand if needed.
  3. Take turns: you thread one bead, the child threads one.
  4. Make a 'necklace' for mom or a toy — the result should please someone.
  5. Finish while interest lasts: 5–10 minutes is enough.
How to know it worked:The child threads objects on their own or with little help, staying interested in the process.

Source: Fine motor development practices for Down syndrome; NDSS resources