Htqe.2025.29

https://doi.org/10.22364/htqe.2025.29 | 411-422 | PDF

The Impact of Fine and Gross Motor Skills Development on Writing Skills Formation in Preschool

Zane Skribanovska¹, Ilze Vilka¹
¹University of Latvia, Latvia

Abstract
Early language and writing development in preschool education is a crucial foundation for children’s successful development and future academic achievement. Recent studies highlight the importance of acquiring writing skills at an early age, yet comparatively little attention has been given to how the preschool educational environment supports and promotes these skills. This study provides a theoretical analysis of the role of fine and gross motor skills in the development of writing skills in preschool-aged children, with particular attention to the significance of motor abilities in the writing acquisition process.

To explore the interconnection between writing skills and motor development, a systematic literature review was conducted, drawing on scientific and theoretical studies that examine the impact of children’s physical development on their writing abilities. Pedagogical and regulatory documents emphasize the need to promote children’s motor development and to ensure an environment that purposefully supports writing skills. Writing is understood as a complex cognitive and motor process involving auditory perception, letter recognition, and movement coordination. Therefore, the development of motor skills at an early age forms a critical foundation for the acquisition of writing skills.

The findings indicate that the development of fine motor skills, particularly the precision of hand and finger movements, significantly influences the ability to form letters and use writing tools. Gross motor skills provide body stability, posture, and coordination essential for writing.

The quality of the learning environment and pedagogical support is also essential, as it fosters children’s motivation and engagement. The results confirm the need for a structured, evidence-based approach that recognizes motor skills development as a key prerequisite for writing acquisition.

Keywords: emergent writing, fine and gross motor skills, pedagogical environment, prerequisites, preschool children, writing development

In: Human, Technologies and Quality of Education, 2025. Proceedings of Scientific Papers = Cilvēks, tehnoloģijas un izglītības kvalitāte, 2025. Rakstu krājums.  Ed. L. Daniela. Riga: University of Latvia, 2025. 698 p.
ISBN 978-9934-36-461-7 
https://doi.org/10.22364/htqe.2025