How your baby uses her hands

Hands up!

At birth your baby’s hands are curled into tight fists but even though they’re tiny and delicate you’ll be amazed how strong her grip is.

By 3 months she’ll be able to direct her hands towards objects she then bats at; and by 4 months she’ll grab an object you offer her to play with. Two months down the line, she’ll probably be able to switch it from hand to hand and steer it towards her mouth – which means it’s time to get her big brother or sister into the habit of picking up scattered pieces of Lego or Barbie shoes!

By 12 months she’ll be able to pick up fairly small objects with her thumb and forefinger (pincer grip) – and this is the skill that sets her on the road to reading and writing.

Ages given are a rough guide only. All babies develop at their own unique pace. If you have any concerns about your baby’s progress, talk to your pediatrician.

 

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