Preschool Movement programme

About this programme

This programme is designed for children aged 2-4 years who are attending a pre-school setting or nursery. It is for all children of all abilities to help develop their fundamental movement skills. The aim is that they can learn the basic skills of movement so that their have a solid foundation to build on and progress their gross motor skills.

Why should they do this programme?

Early childhood is a critical period for the development of fundamental movement skills. It is therefore important for children to learn these skills whilst they are young, so that they have some basic movement skills to prepare them for starting primary school.

“Children who do not master fundamental movement skills are more likely to experience failure in the motor domain and less likely to participate in sport and games during childhood and adolescence” (Hardy et al 2009).

Studies have shown that children with low Functional Motor Skills competence are less likely to participate in and enjoy many physical activities compared with their skilled peers (Okely et al 2001).

How should this programme be carried out?

  • Children attending full-time should practice exercises 3-5 times a week.
  • Part-time children should practice 1-2 times a week.
  • Exercises should take about 15 minutes to carry out.
  • Don’t worry if only half of the exercises can be carried out in this time.
  • Focus on the quality of the exercise, not the quantity - Exercise tips available here.
  • A group size of 6 children per 2 adults is recommended.
  • Encourage the parents to practice the programme with the children at home.
  • Continue the programme for at least 12 weeks to see a benefit.
  • You may like to provide the children with a certificate after they have finished the programme.

A handy flipchart can be accessed here.

A parent handout can be accessed here.

Equipment needed

No special equipment is required, but it is best to have a soft mat or carpet with the floor exercises.

Questions?

Please contact us on: moves.team@swft.nhs.uk or call 01926 413737 with any queries.

« Return to Physiotherapy service