Nursery World - The right moves

A healthy mind and body is just a hop, skip and jump away, as Lena Engel demonstrates with these exercises that will encourage children to develop muscle control Early learning goal

Early learning goal

Children should learn to move with confidence, imagination and in safety.

They should move with control and co-ordination (Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage, p104 and p106) Motion is the most natural activity for babies and young children. It is through moving that they become familiar with their environment and learn to control their bodies. Space and the freedom to use it should be provided both indoors and outside to encourage children to develop control of the muscles in their arms and legs.

Practising these large motor skills will in turn help develop the finer control of the muscles in hands and fingers that is needed for drawing, writing and sewing. Moving is also essential to strengthen a child's bones, to improve blood circulation and to ensure that internal organs function well.

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