Physical development supports children in all areas of their lives. Gross and fine motor skills develop alongside each other and children will have many opportunities throughout the day to explore these. They will be encouraged to play games which help to develop core strength, co-ordination, balance and spatial awareness, using both the indoor and outdoor classrooms to do this. They will also develop their hand-eye co-ordination through ‘Funky Finger’ activities and develop control and confidence through small world play, puzzles, crafts and construction toys.
ELG: Gross Motor Skills
Children at the expected level of development will:
- Negotiate space and obstacles safely, with consideration for themselves and others;
- Demonstrate strength, balance and coordination when playing;
- Move energetically, such as running, jumping, dancing, hopping, skipping and climbing.
ELG: Fine Motor Skills
Children at the expected level of development will:
- Hold a pencil effectively in preparation for fluent writing – using the tripod grip in almost all cases;
- Use a range of small tools, including scissors, paint brushes and cutlery;
- Begin to show accuracy and care when drawing.