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.
