Hand-Eye Coordination
Hand-eye coordination is the ability to coordinate information gathered through eyes to direct and control the hands in accomplishment of the given task. Most hand movements need a visual input, like drawing and grabbing an object. From 3-4 months, babies develop their hand-eye coordination skills along with fine motor skills (control of small muscle movements) by exploring the world around them. Infants move their hands, mouth and body towards persons or objects of interest. At 6 months, most babies learn to drag small objects near them, and quite often into the mouth. Some infants also learn to use both the hands or try to hold 2 objects at the same time. At 6-7 months, infants must have learnt to drag and hold objects by their hand/hands. At 8-9 months, they will be able to very little objects between their thumb and index finger.
Activities to enhance hand-eye coordination:- Tie attractive objects or the baby’s toys in the crib/cradle slightly in reach, so that she can bat the objects overhead. Or install a crib gym.
- Lay the child on her back and shake eye-catching objects above her head, giving her opportunity to swipe at them. To be safe maintain a distance of 3-8 inches.
- Give rattles or other safe items for her to hold. The attractive sound of the object or the texture may encourage her to grip the object.
- Allow her to reach for toys and safe objects around her. Place the objects within reach as she lies on her stomach.
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