Back to Basics: Foundational Movement Skills for School Success

Play Move Improve

Play Move Improve Podcast: Bridging the Gap in Children's Foundational Movement Skills

Episode Summary

In this episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the current challenges in children's development and the critical importance of foundational movement skills. She emphasizes the need to focus on basic skills rather than rushing to meet academic expectations.

1. Many children are struggling with basic developmental skills that were once common.
2. Changes in lifestyle, including smaller living spaces and increased screen time, are impacting children's physical development.
3. Foundational movement skills are crucial for later academic success, including reading and writing.
4. Educators and parents need to focus on meeting children where they are developmentally rather than pushing them to meet arbitrary standards.

1. Crawling: Essential for brain development and reading skills
2. Rolling: Important for spatial awareness and body coordination
3. Basic ball skills: Develops hand-eye coordination and attention span
4. Visual tracking: Fundamental for reading and focusing

• They form the foundation for more complex academic skills like reading and writing
• They help develop spatial awareness, which is crucial for tasks like packing a bag or sitting properly
• They contribute to overall physical and cognitive development

• Curriculum expectations often don't match children's developmental readiness
• Reduced outdoor play and physical activity due to smaller living spaces
• The "YouTube attention span" phenomenon

• Incorporate hills and varied terrain in play areas
• Encourage repetitive play with balls (throwing, catching, rolling)
• Start with larger balls (e.g., beach balls) for younger children
• Focus on basic movements like crawling and rolling, even for older children who missed these milestones

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist and developmental educator passionate about helping children build strong foundational movement skills for better learning outcomes.

• Free handouts available
• "Let's Move" program
• Lodi book for focus and self-regulation

• Share this information with educators and parents who might benefit

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Remember, building strong foundational movement skills is crucial for a child's overall development and future academic success!