Children use their bodies to explore their physical world. Early motor skills form the foundation for early learning and language development. “All children birth to age five should engage in daily physical activity that promotes health related fitness and movement skills”
Children are enthusiastic about moving their bodies in different ways. They are eager to demonstrate their strength, balance, muscles and coordination skills. Young children’s future health an Physical activity, healthy diets, good health practices and prevention of illness and injury are essential for healthy and successful children.
The following activities involve the use of manipulatives which will support young children’s fine motor development, and will help to build the strength and dexterity necessary to hold a pencil appropriately.
The following activities ought to be done frequently to increase postural muscle strength and endurance. These activities also strengthen the child’s awareness of his/her hands.
Tearing and pasting, colouring, thumb printing, finger printing, cotton dabbing, Clapping games (loud/quiet, on knees together, etc.)