Lego tips for kids with fine motor challenges

Lego is more than just a toy – it’s a tool for creativity, problem-solving, and building confidence. But for kids with fine motor challenges, the typical Lego experience can feel overwhelming. The small pieces, intricate designs, and repetitive motions may seem daunting. But don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to make Lego building accessible and enjoyable and the build itself is also a fine motor workout so each brick they place is helping to strengthen their hands, improve coordination, and develop essential motor skills. With the right strategies, Lego can be both a fun activity and a sneaky way to build fine motor strength at the same time!

Here’s how you can help your child with fine motor challenges unlock their inner architect, one brick at a time.

1. Start with bigger bricks

Sometimes, bigger really is better! Larger Lego bricks, such as those in the Lego Duplo range, are a great starting point for kids with fine motor difficulties. These larger pieces are easier to grip and snap together, giving your child a sense of success early on. As their confidence builds, you can gradually introduce smaller bricks, creating a progression toward more intricate designs.

2. Use tools

Fine motor skills are all about control, and if your child struggles with gripping small objects, you can make the process easier by providing them with tools that give them more control. There are some sets on Amazon (and probably lots of other places too!) which include hammers to push bricks in, levering tools, pliers and more.

3. Go for colourful, simple projects

The complexity of Lego sets can be a bit much for some, so aim for sets that focus on basic shapes, colors, and larger builds. You don’t have to follow a set or stick to a prescribed age range; create your own challenge. Building a rainbow wall with colourful blocks or constructing a giant Lego snake can keep things simple and fun.

Tip: You could even try a free-building session, where you encourage your child to build anything they want, without the pressure of following a strict design. This can boost their creativity and reduce frustration.

4. Break it down

Building large structures can be a challenge, so breaking the process down into smaller, manageable tasks can make it easier. Start with smaller, easier sections of a model, and once that’s mastered, move on to bigger sections. This will give your child a sense of accomplishment along the way and prevent them from feeling overwhelmed.

5. Use visual aids and instructions

Sometimes, instructions can feel like a maze for kids with fine motor difficulties. Try visual aids, such as pictures, diagrams, or colour-coded instructions, which may be easier to follow than traditional written steps. Lego sets come with their own detailed manuals, but you can also create your own by taking photos of the pieces and breaking down the build into simple steps.

6. Take breaks and celebrate the process

Building with Lego is a marathon, not a sprint. Kids with fine motor challenges might tire more quickly, and that’s okay! Taking short breaks to rest, stretch, or simply talk about the project can keep your child engaged and reduce frustration.

7. Incorporate movement

Sometimes, the best way to help kids with fine motor challenges is to involve their entire body! You could incorporate large motor skills by making the build part of a fun movement game. For example, take turns grabbing a piece, walking it over to the building area, and adding it to the structure. This makes the activity more dynamic and helps build coordination.

Tip: Set up a mini “Lego relay race” where your child has to move different pieces from one area to another, fostering both gross and fine motor skills.

8. Showcase their creations

One of the best ways to build confidence and encourage continued play is by celebrating your child’s hard work. Once the Lego structure is complete, set up a special area in the house where they can proudly display it. Whether it’s a shelf in their room or a corner of the living room, this makes their efforts feel validated and appreciated.