*Full version originally published in The Irish Independent
Sixth-Class Pupils Losing Their Grip: Can Technology Help?By Dr. Johann Issartel
A recent Dublin City University (DCU) study of six- to 12-year-olds reveals a worrying trend: children in older primary classes are not reaching expected milestones in fine motor skills, such as drawing shapes, tying laces, and placing pegs in a pegboard. Researchers, including my colleague David Gaul, attribute this decline partly to modern lifestyles—children now spend more time on screens than engaging in hands-on activities like building with blocks or practicing handwriting.
The Problem: From Play Dough to PlayStation
Traditionally, simple tasks such as coloring, cutting paper, or even kneading play dough helped younger children develop precision and dexterity. As they grow older, however, many shift to digital devices, potentially replacing valuable fine-motor practice with purely screen-based leisure. While technology offers clear educational benefits, our findings suggest that an overreliance on tablets, gaming consoles, and smartphones may be slowing the normal rate of fine motor development—especially between the ages of eight and twelve.
Why Fine Motor Skills Matter
Fine motor proficiency isn’t just about holding a pencil or tying shoelaces; it underpins daily tasks and even affects overall academic performance. Research shows a link between well-developed fine motor skills and higher achievement in areas like math and reading. When children struggle with these skills, it can lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and anxiety—barriers that may extend into their teenage years.
A New Opportunity: Using Technology for Good
Despite concerns, technology doesn’t have to be the enemy. In fact, it can be harnessed in creative ways to promote—not hinder—motor skill development. This is where MoveAhead comes in. Built on robust research, MoveAhead transforms any device with a camera into a real-time motion-tracking platform, turning screen time into a physically interactive experience. Rather than passively tapping on a touchscreen, children are encouraged to engage in fun, movement-focused challenges that require dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
Real-Time Assessment: MoveAhead’s software analyzes each movement, helping children (and teachers) identify strengths and areas needing improvement.
Personalized Progress: Activities can be adapted to match a child’s skill level, ensuring the challenge is neither too easy nor too difficult, and keeping them motivated.
Positive Engagement: By combining the entertainment factor of gaming with a purposeful focus on motor development, children remain eager to practice skills that might otherwise feel tedious.
Moving Forward
The DCU study underscores a critical need: our changing digital world requires thoughtful strategies to ensure children aren’t missing out on essential motor milestones. While the traditional advice—more hands-on play, less passive screen time—still stands, leveraging platforms like MoveAhead can bridge the gap by turning technology into a powerful ally for skill-building. With the right tools and guidance, we can give children the best of both worlds: modern tech experiences and the fine motor foundations that will serve them for life.
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