OT Activity of the Day:
Color by number
Target Age Range: 5 and up
Coloring is a really easy way to improve fine motor control, in addition to other fine motor aspects. When the emphasis is on control, you can "challenge" your child to stay inside the lines as best they can. Obviously there's no shaming if the marks go outside the lines, this is just fun and practice!
A great way to do this is to find a color by number. Not only are you working on controlling the crayon marks so they stay inside their designated area, but you're also working on following directions. If you "Google" color by numbers, and then click on the images section, you will find plenty to choose from (which is how I found the picture above). You can even be more specific in your search and find your child's favorite character. In the past I've also photo copied a picture from a coloring book and made my own color by number. So don't feel like you have to go out and buy a new coloring book, you can easily do this with the materials you already have.
Enjoy!