Fine and Gross Motor Skill Practice
Your child's motor skill development begins at birth with the oh-so-important tummy time and continues through growth with the majority of skills developing by age 6 and improving over time. Kindergarten is a HUGE year for kids as they learn how to manipulate and control their bodies. This is the perfect time for your kiddo to practice and "get moving" at home as well as at school. For older students, some may still be struggling with such things as balance and/or hand/eye coordination. Making sure to encourage and support your child, at any age, is very important. Be sure not to give them tasks that are difficult to the point of frustration--we want them to love movement, not view it as something that they "aren't good at". There is a plethera of research showing that fine and gross motor skills are directly linked to brain development. When a child has to use both sides of his/her body, it requires both sides of the brain to work together. This is a major factor in scholastic success (reading in particular). Being able to "cross the midline (see link below)" goes hand in hand with eye tracking and reading stamina. Don't miss this GREAT video on fine and gross motor skill practice that requires little to no equipment, all of which can be made at home.
Watch the video below to learn exactly what the midline is and a variety of fun activities to do with your kiddo. Turn on some fun music and dance at home!
Exercise at Home
There are several ways to get your kiddo to exercise at home (the number one being to get outside and play!), but I have a couple that I would like to share with you!
1. Sock Basketball
This is super fun, gets kids to fold socks, which is great fine motor practice, and gets them strengthening their core muscles! Place a laundry basket on the top of your couch. Have your child lie down with their feet under the couch for support. Place a pile of socks behind them (I try to include all socks of the same kind, or at least the same color). Have your child reach behind their head, grad two socks, fold them together into a ball, and, as they complete a sit-up, try to throw them into the laundry basket. What a great way to make chores into a game AND exercise!
2. Yoga Balance Pose (3-6 grade)
Not only is yoga extremely good exercise, but it is also challenging, fun, and promotes amazing flexibility and balance. Allow your child to watch the video below about correct form and tips for completing "Crow". This is the same video I used to "master" this pose (I am far from a master). It was challenging, but I bet your kids will accept the challenge and keep trying and trying! It's a good lesson on patience and perseverance. Make it a family activity and give it a try yourself! Send me a picture of your child's hard work (practice or the steady pose) and he/she will be featured on the Bulletin Board in the gym! Mine is shown below. Whew! That was a tough one!
I hope you enjoy these fun activities at home with your children! What a great way to have fun and develop those pivotal skills as a family.
