Physical Skills

A young child’s physical growth first begins as muscles gain strength followed by gradually developing coordination. The development of muscular control is the first step in this process.

Physical development provides children with the abilities they need to explore and interact with the world around them. A young child’s physical growth first begins as muscles gain strength followed by gradually developing coordination. The development of muscular control is the first step in this process.

As children grow, you can notice dramatic changes in the amount and type of physical activity displayed. Infants spend the first days of life sleeping and eating. However, as they become toddlers, they move from crawling to walking and eventually being more independent and running around. The way children are held and handled, the toys they play with, and their environment all influence their physical skill development.

At this age, 5-year-old’s are full of energy and seek active games and environments. Their increased abilities to balance and coordinate movements help them ride a bicycle with training wheels, jump rope and play with a ball skillfully. They show mature form in walking and running, and are able to vary the direction, speed and quality of their movements. Activities that can help in your 5 year old’s Physical skill development:

• Dance to the music. Expose your child to different styles of music. Playing musical instruments boosts physical development, too.
• Play the animal game. Ask him which animals are his favorite and allow him imitate their actions by running, jumping or crawling.
• Take a trip to the park and allow your child to explore the open spaces. He can chase the birds, kick a ball around or roll down a small hill.
• Play his favorite songs and encourage his to make up dance moves using his entire body. Make the activity more fun by imitating his actions.