Movement Overview

The movement activities fall into three general areas:

1. Games which concentrate on the development of large muscles and body integration. Pay close attention to the directions if you want to meet the stated objectives. By closely observing the children’s movements, you should get a pretty good picture of where they are in motor development.

2. Games which are more creative in nature and aim the kids into experimentation with movement and self-expression. We hope the guidelines will help teachers provide a degree of structure which encourages spontaneity and yet prevents chaos.

3. Games which provide chances to practice cognitive as well as motor skills in a high-interest format. Children who tend to avoid table projects could thus be involved in needing cognitive drill. In most of these games, different content can be substituted according to the needs of your group.

You will find several traditional games which we have adapted for use with preschoolers. We have tried to eliminate competitive elements in order to foster skills development in children of different ages and abilities.

Consider further adaptations as you try activities:
Some kids thrive on responsibility: as the games become familiar, some kids will try to take on teacher roles, freeing you to help individuals who need attention

Music, recorded or played by teacher or kids, seldom fails to enhance an activity and usually helps set the pace and provides structure.

A fantasy or theme in which the group is currently interested adds the potential for emotional expression and group focus.

Most of these games can be played inside or outside provided there is a flat area at least 15 feet square.