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. When children are young,
it’s always better to schedule several short activities rather than one long
one.
It helps keep you fresh as
well.
