Pinching Fingers

When people think of science tools, they often picture microscopes or test tubes—not pipettes in the hands of toddlers. But in our preschool science workshops, we put pipettes front and center, even with our youngest learners. Why? Well....

​these simple tools are more than just science instruments, they're powerful tools for developing small motor skills.

Pipettes require children to pinch, squeeze, and release-- a fine motor motion that strengthens the small muscles in the fingers and hands. These are the same muscles children will need later to button a shirt, zip a jacket, hold a pencil, or type on a keyboard. Using pipettes gives young children the chance to exercise these muscles in a meaningful and engaging way.

When a two-year-old uses a pipette to transfer liquids, they’re doing more than playing. They’re learning cause and effect, exploring basic volume concepts, building hand/finger strength, and fine coordination. It’s science and skill-building, all wrapped into one hands-on experience.

Curious if your toddler is too young to use a pipette? When tools are introduced thoughtfully and with supervision, young children rise to the occasion. In fact, they’re often more focused and engaged when given “real” tools that invite curiosity and control.
This means your child isn’t just having fun, they’re developing essential early skills.

Remember: science doesn’t start in middle school labs; it starts with the first drop of water squeezed from a pipette in a curious child’s hand.