Developing and Assessing Motor Skills in Children

Developing and Assessing Motor Skills in Children

Developing and Assessing Motor Skills in Children.

The basis for a lifetime of physical activity begins in childhood. Engaging in a physically active lifestyle early in life increases the chance that infants and young children will develop and grow normally. Age-specific physical activity is important for healthy brain development and healthy bodies. Early motor skills form the foundation for early learning and language development. Physical education forms the basis for later sport, dance, exercise and physical activities.

Learning to care for one's health begins early and continues throughout life. Parents and caregivers encourage healthy practices in daily routines by: teaching safety and protecting children from injury, providing nourishing foods, and facilitating ways for infants and children to be active and stay fit.

Early guidance can help a child develop and grow normally, and have the energy to engage in learning activities. Teaching children healthy habits such as healthy food choices, hand washing, oral health practices and recognition and avoidance of safety hazards sets the foundation for a continued active and healthy lifestyle.

We know from research that the physical activity of infants and young children support brain development and the child's ability to become a successful learner. To meet children's energy needs, children's diets should contain a wide variety of healthy foods, and their activities should likewise be varied and numerous.

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" (National Association for Sport and Physical Education).

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 and well-being are directly related to their early physical development. Physical activity, healthy diets, good health practices and prevention of illness and injury are essential for healthy and successful children.