In-Hand Manipulation

What is it? Using dexterous/skilled finger movements, without evidence of fumbling, when manipulating/handling task objects (AOTA, 2014, p. S25). 

Why is it important? In-hand manipulation is a skill necessary for occupations across the lifetime such as: 

• Dressing (managing clothing fasteners) 
• Toileting (managing clothing fasteners, using toileting supplies, toileting hygiene) 
• Feeding (using a spoon/fork/knife)
• Grooming (brushing teeth) 
• Academic performance (writing, cutting, typing, computer use, etc.) 
• Play activities 
• Meal preparation (opening packages/containers) 
• Opening medication containers 
• Job performance 
• Leisure activities 

5 activities to try at home: 

1. Crumpling paper into balls using one hand and throwing into containers/at targets. 

Tip: Try using old magazines or newspapers that are ready to be recycled! 

2. Feeding the frog “food”.  

Tip: Try putting coins into a piggybank if you do not have supplies for a frog. 

3. Playing Mancala. 

Tip: Can be played using marbles/small objects and an egg carton if you do not have the board game. 

4. Making bird feeders. 

Tip: String cheerios onto pipe cleaners.

5. Making a bean mosaic. 

Tip: Try with smalls seeds if you do not have dry beans. 

References 

American Occupational Therapy Association. (2014). Occupational therapy practice framework: Domain and process (3rd ed.). American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 68(Suppl. 1), S1-S48.