At Little Learners we acknowledge the need for children to have physical movement in their daily routine, whether it’s going for a walk, visiting the Robinson playground or racing up and down the path on a bobby car. Indoor activities that promote physical movement are also on offer, such as dancing with scarves, swinging from a punch bag or jumping on a trampoline, there are many opportunities for us.
BENEFITS OF PHYSICAL PLAY-MOVEMENT
There are health benefits and development benefits for children when they are doing physical play or movement.
THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF PHYSICAL PLAY
- Develops muscles and strengthens bones.
- Help to build stamina and supports heart and lung development.
- Helps children to release energy so they can sleep better.
- Helps children to build an appetite.
DEVELOPMENT BENEFITS OF PHYSICAL PLAY
- Helps children to practice and master their gross motor skills, such as balancing, steering and pedaling.
- Encourages children to make different movements, such as running, jumping, climbing and throwing.
Cognitive
- Children are given the opportunity to explore and learn from the environment.
- Children develop space awareness.
- Language may be used to organize a play activity.
Emotional
- Children get a sense of achievement when they have mastered a skill, which builds confidence.
Social
- Encourages children to play together depending on the type of play opportunity.
Andy, Groupleader Preschool