Physical development is one of the six areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage. It helps children to learn about movement, their bodies and the how to interact with different objects.
What is physical development?
This area concentrates on:
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Movement and space
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Health and bodily awareness
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Using equipment and materials
The Early Years Foundation Stage says:
"The physical development of babies and young children must be encouraged through the provision of opportunities for them to be active and interactive and to improve their skills of co-ordination, control, manipulation and movement.
They must be supported in using all of their senses to learn about the world around them and to make connections between new information and what they already know. They must be supported in developing an understanding of the importance of physical activity and making healthy choices in relation to food. Babies and children learn by being active, and physical development helps children gain confidence in what they can do."
What does this mean if your child has a sight problem?
You may want to get advice from your QTVI or mobility teacher on some safety issues. If you are not in touch with a specialist teacher already, the RNIB Helpline on 0845 766 9999 will give you the name and contact details of someone in your area.
If your child wears glasses, they should be routinely prescribed plastic lenses that are safe to wear at all times. It is important to encourage your child to 'get up and go' as much as they are able, but you may need to work in partnership with a specialist such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist.
What you can do to help your child's physical development
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Build your child's confidence to take manageable risks in their play in preparation for later life.
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Motivate your child to be active through praise, encouragement, games and appropriate guidance.
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Watch for your child's natural movements through which they are finding out about their bodies and exploring sensations.
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Many movements or actions may need to be demonstrated and modelled for your child but you can build this into their play.
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Use precise and consistent instructions for directions, such as 'can you find the ball low down on your left?'
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Try to give opportunities for your child to move freely in a safe open space where they can experience speed and energy on their own.
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Make sure your child is familiar with changes in gradients, heights and changes in floor textures when moving around, and that they know the layout of a new environment, drawing attention to any consistent sounds in the area such as a bubbling fish tank.