Hi ,

I have spent some time this week putting together a movement game that I hope you might be able to play at home or send into your child's school to use.

Click here to download version 1 with clipart-style pictures.

Click here if your child would prefer version 2 with real animal photos.

Animal actions are great as a motor skills activity as they work on balance, body awareness and coordination.

You will see that the turtle crawl asks the child to crawl using the opposite arm and leg, whereas the bear walk asks the child to move the arm and leg on the same side of the body together. Both these actions are working on bilateral coordination which is a key underlying skill in activities such as tying shoe laces, handwriting and fastening clothing. The snake slither encourages the child to go into a 'tummy time' type position which helps develop their postural control so that they can sit in class without their body slouching and getting tired. The crab walk challenges your child's motor planning and improves their core strength.

Alongside supporting motor skills, these activities are great as a sensory movement break. I hope you like them!

Hanna

I hope back to school has gone well for your family but if your child is having difficulties and you are considering a sensory assessment then please get in touch asap if you'd like my support before Christmas. All of the information about my Sensory Success assessment and support package is here.