A new report published in Education 3-13 has suggested that as many as 60% of children aged 44 and 5 show signs of significant lack of development in the ‘postural and motor skills’ needed to support motor aspects of learning in the classroom. Development of these motor skills underpin a child’s ability to sit still, develop control of specific eye movements that are required for reading, writing, copying and catching a ball, and the hand-eye coordination involved in handwriting.
The researchers recommend there should be opportunities for children in early years up to Year 2 to develop and practise motor skills. These include:
- Re-introduction of regular screening of children’s neuromotor function at the time of school entry and at key stages in the educational process to help identify and prevent the onset of under-achievement and possible secondary associated behavioural problems linked to immature neuromotor function; and the –
- Introduction of specific daily movement programmes, which have been shown to be effective in reducing signs of neuromotor immaturity, into early years and primary education settings as standard practise.
- The report authors say that large-scale research is needed, particularly in relation to areas such a neuromotor screening, appropriate physical development provision prior to and during school and developmental movement interventions for older children.
These recommendations would help to improve physical foundations for learning for all children.
Full report available via Website Link.
Source Early Years Educator