when do they learn how to "let go" of a grasp?

CarlaAndJames

I know I read somewhere that palmar grasp and the letting go are two separate skills. When do they learn how to let go?

the BLW post made me think of it, because I have to make sure whatever food I give her has a handle or she gets pissed because she can pick it up and bring it to her mouth, but can't figure out how to open her fist and release it. Same thing happens sometimes with toys. She'll have a handle on something and want something different but she can't seem to figure out dropping what she's holding?

kellyloveszach

I'm not sure but by 6-7 months they usually figure out how to pass and object from hand to the other.  Wouldn't that be a release motion too? 

LaRue86

DS has figured this one out. He is so into the "I drop and mom/dad pick up game"

Ordering a toy leash today...

JayElleJayCee

Avery does a great job letting go. Unless she has ahold of my hair. For some reason she likes to keep hold of that. I'm cutting it next week for real this time!

CarlaAndJames

well hmm, now that I think about it I have seen her throw things on the floor or toss them to hear the noise, so I guess she CAN she just usually doesn't? Maybe she's just in the process of learning it and her brain doesn't talk to her hand 100% of the time.

EMLYNNLERETTE

We just realized our daughter could do it this AM.  Not sure when it started though.  She is 6mo.

march2008

"Lets objects go voluntarily" is a milestone by the end of the 8 to 12 month period, according to my book by the AAP.

MammaBear81

try stroking the back of her hand, it usually gets LO's to release the "death grip"

ladybear06

MammaBear81:

try stroking the back of her hand, it usually gets LO's to release the "death grip"

oh i hadn't thought of that. will have to try that next time. thanks!

CarlaAndJames

thanks I'll try that!