Pediatric Occupational Therapy for Gross and Fine Motor Skills Delays
in San Diego, CA
Helping Children Build Strength, Coordination, and Confidence
From climbing on the playground to holding a pencil, motor skills are the foundation of so many everyday activities. But if your child struggles with gross or fine motor development, even simple tasks can feel overwhelming.
At SmallTalk Pediatric Therapy, our occupational therapists specialize in helping children strengthen these important skills through playful, engaging therapy designed just for them.
What Are Gross and Fine Motor Skills Delays?
Motor skills are the abilities that let children move and control their bodies. These can be separated into two types of skills:
Gross motor skills: these involve large movements (like walking, running, and jumping) that use big muscles to complete.
Fine motor skills: these involve precise actions (like getting dressed, writing, buttoning clothes, or using utensils) that use the smaller muscles in the hands and feet to accomplish.
Delays happen when a child develops these skills later than expected, which can make everyday tasks harder for them to manage.
Common Symptoms of Motor Skills Delays
Some of the most common signs of gross and fine motor skill delays include:
- Difficulty crawling, walking, running, or jumping compared to peers
- Trouble climbing stairs, riding a bike, or keeping balance
- Challenges using their hands for tasks like writing, coloring, cutting, or buttoning
- Awkward or uncoordinated movements during play or sports
- Trouble with hand-eye coordination (catching a ball, stacking blocks)
- Avoidance of activities that require strength or dexterity or rushing through tasks
- Low endurance or fatigue during physical activities
What Causes Motor Skills Delays?
Motor delays can happen for many reasons. Some are linked to premature birth, low muscle tone, or neurological conditions. Others may occur without a clear cause. While motor delays are relatively common, early support from our occupational therapists can make a big difference in helping your child gain independence and confidence.
How Occupational Therapy Can Help with Motor Skills Delays
At SmallTalk, our occupational therapists create personalized treatment plans to strengthen gross and fine motor skills in a way that feels like fun, not work. In this way, we help children become more confident in play, school, and everyday life.
Depending on your child’s specific needs, therapy may include:
- Play-based strengthening exercises to build core and upper body stability
- Balance and coordination activities like obstacle courses or ball games
- Fine motor practice using crafts, puzzles, and everyday tools to improve hand strength and dexterity
- Handwriting and pre-writing activities for school readiness
- Parent education so families can continue building motor skills at home and in daily routines
Why Choose SmallTalk?
When it comes to helping your child gain independence and confidence, you want a team that not only understands child development but truly connects with kids. That’s exactly what you’ll find at SmallTalk!
We help children throughout San Diego achieve their greatest potential. Our occupational therapists are committed to helping your child grow through playful, goal-oriented sessions. Whether we’re working on motor coordination, sensory processing, or self-care routines, we make therapy meaningful and fun.
We also know that parent involvement is key. That’s why we prioritize open communication and teamwork, so you always feel supported and involved in your child’s progress.
Schedule Your Child’s Evaluation Today
If your child is struggling with motor skill development, SmallTalk Pediatric Therapy is here to help. Our experienced occupational therapists in San Diego will evaluate your child’s needs and create a plan that supports their progress step by step.
Call us at (619) 647-6157 or fill out our online form today to schedule an evaluation. Together, we’ll help your child play and grow with confidence.