Published on 12, July, 2020
My Son is seven going on eight and starting to become more independent. He wants to put his own seatbelt on but struggles with his fine motor skills. Any ideas?
He just wouldn’t put it on at pick up time, we tried being firm, bribing him, his Dad tried showing him with his own seatbelt. In the end a member of staff came and did it no problem but we can’t rely on that
Hi
There's some info here, including suggestions for activities that could help to develop his fine motor skills:
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/professional-practice/motor-skills-1
Paediatric occupational therapy - perhaps arranged via your local NHS services - may also be helpful. Examples of links from different NHS areas:
https://www.wsh.nhs.uk/Services-A-Z/Childrens-services/Childrens-community-services/Paediatric-occupational-therapy/Paediatric-Occupational-Therapy-Motor-Skills-Pack/Paediatric-occupational-therapy-motor-skills-resources.aspx
https://www.nhstayside.scot.nhs.uk/OurServicesA-Z/ChildrenandYoungPeoplesOTService/PROD_273839/index.htm
https://www.eastsussexchildren.nhs.uk/motor-skills/