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.

Six-year-old’s continue to enjoy moving in a variety of ways. Although their physical skills are not yet fully developed, they are still excited to try out new activities and sports. They are able to run in various pathways and directions, and can manipulate their bodies by jumping and landing, rolling and transferring their weight from feet to hands to feet. At this age, children’s actual skill levels will vary based on their amount of physical activity. Those who do not practice different activities might not develop as those who do. Activities that can help in your 6 year old’s Physical skill development:

• Encourage moving: play different sports and do recreational activities together or with others, which will also improve their interactive skills.
• Engage in outdoor activities such as throwing and kicking a ball, alternating between walking and running or jumping up and down on different surfaces, alternating different feet.
• Create a path of obstacles including cardboard boxes, pillows, and furniture that your child can run around or climb over.
• 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.