Physical Development
Physical Development is one of the three Prime Areas for a child's development. We aim to help our children succeed in moving and handling by giving opportunity to:
- explore different tools and mark-making materials
- explore various climbing and balancing apparatus
- use different small apparatus, such as balls, bats, beanbags
- explore the bikes and scooters
- develop running and moving skills in the garden
- provide plenty of fine motor activities
Physical Development also covers Health and Self-Care. Our children are taught how to care for themselves and keep themselves safe by:
- exploring role play activities, such as doll play
- having opportunities to explore teeth and toothbrushes
- exploring soap and cleaning materials
- being taught about the importance of hand washing and healthy eating
- being encouraged to try new foods
- being encouraged to take risks, and learning about keeping themselves and others safe
- learning to use the toilet
- being able to get themselves dressed/ undressed
When they leave our Nursery your child should be able to:
- Eat independently most of the time, and will be learning how to use a knife and fork.
- Become more independent in getting dressed and undressed, such as being able to put on their coat and do up the zip.
- Brush their teeth, and wash and dry their hands independently, and understand why it is important to brush their teeth and make healthy choices about food and drink.
- Use a range of skills, such as balancing, riding and ball skills.
- Walk up steps/ stairs with alternate feet.
- Skip, hop, stand on one leg and hold a pose for a game such as musical statues.
- Wave flags and streamers using large muscle movements, and paint and make marks on a large scale.
- Join in with group and team activities, such as kicking a ball to a friend.
- Use one-handed tools, such as scissors, and choose the right tools for the task they wish to complete.
- Work with friends to move and carry large objects such as big wooden blocks.
- Show a preference for either their left or right hand, and Hold pens and pencils in a comfortable grip and show good control.
How you can help your child at home:
- Help with dressing, but let your child do the last steps, such as fastening the zip.
- Encourage your child to be active by walking/ cycling to nursery.
- Give many opportunities to practise running, jumping and balancing etc.
- Encourage your child to complete simple tasks, such as washing their plate