Early educators explore fine motor skills in Childcare Resources virtual workshop

VERO BEACH – It was a virtual return to Vero Beach for Dr. Marianne Gibbs, presenter of Childcare Resources’ “More Whats, Hows, and Whys of Fine Motor” workshop, funded by Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee. After a massively successful workshop in the spring of 2018, Childcare Resources brought Dr. Gibbs, founder of Write Out of the Box, back to further inspire local educators about how to encourage fine motor skill development.

“The time flies so quickly through this window of development,” said Dr. Gibbs. “We do not have until tomorrow.”

Dr. Marianne Gibbs demonstrates basic shapes and handwriting strokes.

More than 80 local educators participated in this live virtual event. After exploring fine motor skill development and easy-to-incorporate sensory activities, Dr. Gibbs discussed how to encourage independence and self-help skills. She noted that, often, young children are coached through activities in ways that allow them to hit specific goals, instead of encouraging them to learn.

“Sometimes we get caught up in the end result,” noted Dr. Gibbs, “and lose sight of the teachable moments.”

Local early educators explore fine motor skills in a virtual workshop with Dr. Marianne Gibbs.

Before the workshop, Childcare Resources early educator coaches delivered bags of fine motor supplies funded by PNC Foundation to teachers that had registered. The coaches will continue to work with event attendees, providing technical assistance in implementing Dr. Gibbs’ ideas and strategies.

Bags of fine motor supplies, funded by PNC Foundation, were delivered to teachers that registered for the workshop.

“Dr. Gibbs is such an enthusiastic and knowledgeable presenter,” said Paulette Maggiacomo, Early Education Coach. “Her virtual workshop showcased amazing and easy activities that can help children develop fine motor skills. I look forward to helping teachers bring her ideas to life in local classrooms.”

Childcare Resources’ next live virtual workshop, Sensory Play for Every Day, is scheduled for November 14 and will feature Lisa “Ooey Gooey Lady” Murphy. Registration is currently open at ChildcareResourcesIR.org.

Childcare Resources of Indian River, a partner agency of the United Way of Indian River County and Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee, elevates and promotes the highest quality early childhood development and education in Indian River County, focusing on economically challenged children and families. To learn more about Childcare Resources, visit ChildcareResourcesIR.org or call 772-567-3202