Play Move Improve Podcast: Essential Fundamental Movement Skills for School Readiness

Episode Summary

In this episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the changing landscape of fundamental movement skills needed for school readiness. She highlights three crucial skills that many three-year-olds are struggling with and provides practical strategies to improve these skills.

1. Recent changes in children's environments, including increased screen time and social isolation, have impacted fundamental movement skills.
2. Many three-year-olds are struggling with basic skills like rolling, crawling, and visual tracking.
3. These skills are crucial for school readiness and overall development.

1. Visual Tracking
2. Rolling
3. Jumping with Two Feet

1. Incorporate visual tracking exercises in morning routines (e.g., following a moving pencil or beanbag)
2. Use rolling as a transition activity (e.g., rolling across a mat to go outside)
3. Practice jumping with two feet during daily activities (e.g., jumping to wash hands or get a hat)

• These skills are foundational for more complex tasks in school
• Early intervention can lead to quick improvements
• Addressing these skills can help with overall coordination and learning readiness

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist and developmental educator passionate about improving children's movement skills for better learning outcomes.

• Integrate these three activities into your daily routines with children
• Provide feedback on improvements observed
• Stay tuned for more tips and advice on Play Move Improve

• Website: playmoveimprove.com.au
• Leave a review on iTunes or Spotify

Remember, focusing on these fundamental movement skills can significantly impact a child's readiness for school and overall development!