Movement play – developing core strength
The children in nursery have weekly access to the Key Stage 2 hall, in order to practice a wide range of movement patterns. ‘Movement Play’ sessions support children to develop coordination and balance by using a wide variety of different pieces of equipment. The children also remove their socks and shoes for the session, so it’s a great opportunity for them to practice this skill too, as well as putting them back on at the end.
As the year goes on, the children build their strength and confidence to challenge themselves, showing increased independence and ability when using the equipment, such as benches for balancing on and moving across and cargo nets for crawling through.
One of the key reasons for having weekly movement play sessions, is to support children in building core strength, which is the ability to keep your position and move from the centre of your body outwards. If children’s core strength is underdeveloped, they will struggle with gross motor skills, such as jumping and balancing. It is not only important for movement however, but it is also crucial for reading and writing later on in the children’s school career. Making movement play fun and enjoyable is a great way for children to access and practice pre-reading and writing skills in an age-appropriate manner.
