Physical development:
Physical activity plays an important role in supporting children’s overall growth and development, helping them lead healthy, happy and active lives. Gross and fine motor skills develop gradually throughout early childhood, beginning with sensory experiences and the growth of strength, co-ordination and body awareness through activities such as tummy time, crawling and active play with objects and adults.
Adults can encourage this development by providing a variety of indoor and outdoor play opportunities and games that help children build core strength, balance, stability, spatial awareness, agility and co-ordination. Developing gross motor skills supports not only physical health but also children’s social and emotional wellbeing.
Fine motor skills and precision are essential for improving hand-eye co-ordination, which later contributes to early writing and literacy skills. Giving children regular opportunities to engage in small world play, puzzles, arts and crafts, and the use of small tools — alongside adult guidance and encouragement — helps them develop confidence, control and independence in their abilities.