Child development experts agree that children must have opportunities to move. It is key to their physical growth. However, Dr. Maria Montessori connected the child’s mind and body to fully support the whole child’s healthy development. Our Montessori classrooms particularly incorporate movement into the classroom through independent practice and also group activities, to enhance and support learning. Children choose action cards and follow the prompts eagerly waiting for the next one; jump, gallop, balance on one leg. Or perhaps they work with the popular Yoga cards; tree pose, frog pose, and so on. Even the freedom of movement children have in the classroom, versus being assigned to a desk, stimulates learning. Outside, children can be seen taking turns with the junior-sized wheel barrow, carrying watering cans, or balancing on the beam.
Group movement activities engage the whole body, including core muscles, through music and movement, PE class, and specific classroom lessons. Core strength for children is becoming a big concern, as children are engaged in less physical activity these days. An underdeveloped core can lead to other physical delays and hinder a child’s balance, coordination and even their ability to sit up straight, hold a pencil or control scissors.
The variety of movement activities for our children develop locomotor skills, object control skills and stability. Through movement practice, children further develop order, concentration, coordination, and independence.
For fun and easy family exercises to do at home visit http://theinspiredtreehouse.com/child-development-core-strengthening-for-kids/
