What is the pincer grasp?

You might already know that grabease's original ergonomic utensils are designed to develop children's independence. How exactly do they do that though? Well, one way is through their ergonomic handle, which is shaped and sized specifically to help develop your little one's pincer grasp. Well, what is the pincer grasp?

Basically, the pincer grasp is the coordination of the index finger and thumb to hold an item. We use it daily - when we're holding a pencil, buttoning a shirt, and picking up small objects. Babies usually develop their pincer grasp between the ages of 9 to 12 months. 

As babies start to use the pincer grasp, it represents development of other fine motor skills that involve muscles in their hands, strength, and hand-eye coordination. 

You can help baby's progress by allowing them to play with (appropriate) small items and toys and letting them self-feed. Their pincer grasp can be developed as they play with toys that require them to squeezed, pushed together, pulled apart, picked up, etc. These actions later progress into ones such as painting, coloring, writing, tying their shoes, and other skills. 

Great! Well, how is the pincer grasp and baby led weaning related? 

Good question - both involve hand eye coordination and babies can use the pincer grasp as they feed themselves when they pick up food and use their utensils. The pincer grasp does not need to be fully developed in order to start baby led weaning. Rather, baby led weaning is just another activity that can help your little one develop that skill! 

If your baby is exhibiting signs that they are ready to start self feeding, this may be the perfect time for you to purchase your first set of grabease!