Tue 17 Oct 2023
Welcome back to the second part of our series on early years education. In this installment, we're diving into the world of physical development and how it shapes the learning experiences of young children.
Physical Development: More Than Just Playtime
When you picture an early childhood education setting, you might envision a room filled with toys, colorful mats, and playful activities. But did you know that what might seem like mere child's play is actually a crucial aspect of a child's holistic development?
Physical development is at the heart of learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) programmes, the framework that guides early childhood education in the UK. It encompasses more than just running around and having fun. It's about building confidence, joy, and competence in performing a wide range of movement skills. These skills are the building blocks that children need for their emotional well-being, health, and participation in various activities.
From Rolling to Running: The Journey of Physical Development
Babies and young children are natural movers. They're curious about their bodies and love to explore different ways they can move. Think about how a baby learns to roll over, crawl, sit up, stand, and eventually take those wobbly first steps. Each of these milestones represents a significant achievement in physical development.
But these skills aren't just fun and games; they're essential for a child's overall growth. Research indicates that some children may not get the physical development opportunities and support they need in these early stages. Unfortunately, these early experiences can have far-reaching consequences, even affecting numeracy and literacy skills later on.
Building Fundamental Movement Skills for Life
Fundamental movement skills are the foundation of physical development. These skills encompass three main categories: locomotor skills (like running and jumping), stability skills (such as twisting and balancing), and manipulation skills (like throwing and catching). They might sound simple, but they're the keys that unlock a child's ability to engage in various physical activities, games, and sports.
Here's the fascinating part: a child's early physical activity can influence their proficiency in these skills later in life. So, that seemingly carefree playtime actually has a profound impact on a child's lifelong relationship with physical activity. It's not just about being healthy; it's about nurturing essential life skills.
The Role of Early Years Settings in Physical Development
Early years settings play a pivotal role in supporting children's physical development. But it's not just about letting kids run around; it's about carefully planning and providing the right experiences and interactions to help children thrive.
A strong tradition of active play both indoors and outdoors is part of early childhood education in the UK. These environments are where children take those crucial steps toward mastering fundamental movement skills. Practitioners play a vital role in guiding children's physical development, helping them learn new skills, and providing the support they need to progress.
From Gross to Fine: The Complexity of Motor Skills
Physical development in young children progresses from gross motor skills to fine motor skills. Gross motor skills involve larger muscle groups and are responsible for actions like crawling, walking, and jumping. These are the foundation upon which fine motor skills are built.
Fine motor skills, on the other hand, involve the coordination of smaller muscles in tasks like grasping, holding, and precise hand-eye movements. These skills are vital for tasks such as writing, drawing, and using small tools.
To develop these skills, children need a range of activities and materials. Whether it's turning the pages of a book, playing with building blocks, or cutting with scissors, these activities help fine-tune their motor skills.
Adult Interactions Matter
Interactions between practitioners and children are instrumental in their physical development journey. Practitioners must have a clear understanding of a child's current abilities and what they need to learn next. With this knowledge, planned activities and opportunities for skill practice can be tailored to each child's needs.
For example, teaching a child to jump and hop with precision and control requires more than just demonstrating the skill. It involves engaging the child in the learning process, allowing them to practice the skill, and eventually applying it to fun activities like hopscotch.
Conclusion: Building Strong Foundations for Lifelong Learning
Physical development in early years education goes far beyond playtime. It's a fundamental part of a child's overall development, impacting their emotional well-being, health, and future engagement in physical activities. Through careful planning, supportive interactions, and a focus on fundamental movement skills, early years settings play a vital role in building strong foundations for lifelong learning.
Stay tuned for the next installment in our series, where we'll explore the three prime areas of learning in the early years. Together, we're uncovering the essential elements that contribute to high-quality early years education.
To read the full research please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/best-start-in-life-a-research-review-for-early-years/best-start-in-life-part-2-the-3-prime-areas-of-learning