Movement Foundations (Age 2-5)
Children at this can get a great start on gross fundamental motor skills given a large variety of early movement experiences. They can learn simple locomotor skills such as running, jumping, leaping, and hopping. They can also begin to learn some manipulation skills like throwing, catching, kicking, and striking. Recent research has shown that "free play" does not promote skill development (Brooks, 2012). Although free play does not promote skill development, it does provide a fun atmosphere and can increase health-related fitness (cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, etc.). The best way to teach skills is by modelling the activity but with very little instruction. While most children will progress in their development, overweight/obese children and children with limited motor experiences generally do not improve in fundamental movement patterns at the same pace as normal weight, active children (Brooks, 2012).