Motor developmentReading time: 3 minutes

How to Train the Pincer Grasp

CategoryMotor activity
How to Train the Pincer Grasp

Medically reviewed by pediatrician Alexandra Zglavosiy

The pincer grasp is a key skill that typically emerges around 7 months. It helps babies pick up small objects, eat with their hands, and explore. This skill develops gradually and is best supported through play — with finger foods, velcro toys, or soft beads.

sprouty

Sleep, feeding, and milestones in one app

Download on the App StoreGoogle Play

Quick takeaways

  • The pincer grasp — the ability to pick up objects using the thumb and index finger — typically develops between 7 and 10 months, though every child is different.
  • The best way to practice is through everyday play — during meals, tummy time, or toy play.
  • There’s no need to rush — the skill develops gradually, from palmar grasp to precise pinching.
  • If by age one the baby doesn’t use fingers separately at all, talk to a doctor.

What is the pincer grasp

The pincer grasp is the ability to pick up small objects using the tips of the thumb and index finger. It’s a major milestone in fine motor development. It allows a child to:

  • eat with fingers (like picking up berries or banana pieces)
  • flip through pages
  • turn small toysin their hands
  • later — hold a spoon, pencil, or fasten buttons

How this skill develops

Grasping skills follow a sequence:

  • Palmar grasp — using the whole hand
  • Raking grasp — using four fingers and the thumb
  • Pincer grasp — using only the thumb and index finger

Babies typically start trying these movements around 8 months and may confidently pick up crumbs by 10–11 months.

How to support the skill

The best way to learn is through play. Safe and effective options:

  • Finger foods: offer soft foods like banana slices, beans, or soft cheese that are easy to pick up
  • Beads or buttons: give your baby large, safe items to transfer between containers
  • Stickers and Velcro toys: anything that involves peeling and sticking helps train the grasp
  • Pick-up play: scatter soft balls, large buttons, or blocks and show your baby how to collect them one by one
  • Finger movement games: gently move your baby’s fingers, play counting rhymes, or use gesture songs — these help babies become aware of and control individual fingers

When to consult a doctor

Talk to a pediatrician if by 11–12 months your baby:

  • doesn’t use fingers separately at all
  • shows no interest in small objects
  • avoids fine motor play

Especially if other motor delays are also present.

FAQ about the pincer grasp

When does the pincer grasp appear in a child?

It usually develops between 7 and 10 months of age. At first, babies use the whole hand to grasp objects, then gradually begin using more fingers and developing finer control. Around 8 months they start practicing more precise movements, and by 10–11 months many babies can reliably pick up small items using thumb and index finger together.

How can you develop the pincer grasp?

The best way is through play and everyday activities. Soft finger foods, transferring safe objects between containers, toys with velcro, and simple picking games help strengthen fine finger control. Regular practice in natural situations is important so the skill develops gradually without pressure or forced training.

Is it normal if a baby still uses the whole hand to grab objects?

Yes, this is completely normal. Early on, babies use a palmar grasp, holding objects with the whole hand. Only later do they develop more precise finger movements. Fine motor skills progress step by step, and every child develops at their own pace. Gradual improvement is expected over time.

When should you consult a doctor about pincer grasp development?

You should talk to a pediatrician if by 11–12 months the baby does not use fingers independently, shows no interest in small objects, or avoids fine motor play. This is especially important if there are other signs of motor delay. Early evaluation helps ensure timely support if needed.

With care

Our articles are based on evidence-based medicine and reviewed by pediatricians. However, they do not replace a consultation with your doctor. Every child is unique — if you have any concerns, please consult a medical professional.

  • Adolph KE, Franchak JM. The development of motor behavior. Wiley Interdiscip Rev Cogn Sci. 2017 Jan;8(1-2):10.1002/wcs.1430. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1430. Epub 2016 Dec 1. PMID: 27906517; PMCID: PMC5182199. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27906517/. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
  • Case-Smith, J. (2015). Occupational Therapy for Children and Adolescents, 8th Edition, December 26, 2016. eBook ISBN: 9780323512626
  • Thelen, E., & Smith, L. B. (1994). A dynamic systems approach to the development of cognition and action. The MIT Press.
  • Kara ÖK, Şahin S, Tonak HA, Arslan M, Köse B, Kara K. The relationship of motor development with sensory processing among infants born very preterm: a prospective case-control study. Turk J Pediatr. 2021;63(5):855-866. doi: 10.24953/turkjped.2021.05.013. PMID: 34738367. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34738367/. Accessed 10 May 2026.
  • R. Jason Gerber, Timothy Wilks, Christine Erdie-Lalena; Developmental Milestones: Motor Development. Pediatr Rev July 2010; 31 (7): 267–277. https://doi.org/10.1542/pir.31-7-267. Accessed 10 May 2026.
  • EELES, A.L., SPITTLE, A.J., ANDERSON, P.J., BROWN, N., LEE, K.J., BOYD, R.N. and DOYLE, L.W. (2013), Assessments of sensory processing in infants: a systematic review. Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology, 55: 314-326. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-8749.2012.04434.x. Accessed 10 May 2026.
  • von Hofsten C. An action perspective on motor development. Trends Cogn Sci. 2004 Jun;8(6):266-72. doi: 10.1016/j.tics.2004.04.002. PMID: 15165552. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15165552/. Accessed 10 May 2026.