The Development of Fine Motor Skills in Children with Autism Using Home Economics Activities at Chonprathansongkroh School, Nonthaburi Province

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of using home economics activities in the development of fine motor skills in children with autism at Chonprathansongkroh School, Nonthaburi Province. This study used the experimental single subject design research. The sample group was children with autism studying in grades 1 – 6 age
7 - 12 years old and was diagnosed by a physician as mild high functioning. The study had found problems with fine motor skills total of 5 people. The study focused on the ability of using fine motor skills in children with autism in the parts of the fingers, palm and wrists that worked in synchronization with the eyes. The instruments consisted of 1) six lesson plans, including Picture Mosaic, Octopus Hanging, Animal Shaped, Sandwiches, Five Colors of Bualoy, Leaf Light Clay, and Pizza. 2) observation and recording the ability fine motor skills in children with autism at interval time. 3) teacher from interview. Data analysis included frequency, percentages, and mean.

The results showed that home economics activities could develop fine motor skills in children with autism in the parts of the fingers, palm and wrists that worked is synchronization with the eyes In the matter of holding a pencil, exerting force to press the pencil, and pencil steering and handing.  In addition, it also helped develop social skills in the matter of sharing, helping other people, waiting, arrangement of sacrifice, and reinforcing imagination and creativity of children with autism as well.