Radio Commentary
Children’s work is play. Much is
learned through simple games and activities.
In fact, play is
important in helping children build basic motor skills like running, jumping,
throwing, and catching.
Play
helps build muscles and aerobic capacity in young bodies. It allows children to
release energy and tensions.
Play
also teaches social skills. It can increase self-esteem, help strengthen and
build attention spans, and improve physical coordination.
To
help your child develop basic motor skills during playtime you might consider
the following activities:
Use
bright, colorful balls when playing ball games because these are easy for
children’s eyes to follow.
It helps keep
their attention and makes it easier for their eyes to follow the motion.
Use
slow, consistent pitches when tossing to your child. Practice makes perfect—for
them and for you!
Practice
the same skill in different ways to keep your child interested. Run races
today. Play tag tomorrow. The skills are the same but the game seems very
different. This helps prevent boredom or distraction.
Give
brief instructions that are easy to follow, like “watch the ball.” Long-winded
explanations about why it’s important to watch the ball can lead a child’s mind
to wander.
Remember
that children tire easily, so keep periods of vigorous activity short. It’s
always better when children are young to try to schedule several short
activities rather than one long one.
It helps keep you
fresh as well.
