Gross Motor Skills

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Definition: Gross motor skills involve large muscle movements used for activities like walking, jumping, and running.

Importance: Strong gross motor skills support physical coordination, endurance, and participation in play and daily activities.

Examples:

  • Climbing on playground equipment

  • Running and jumping

  • Catching and throwing a ball

Physical Manifestations of Delays:

  • Clumsiness or frequent falling

  • Difficulty with stairs or playground equipment

  • Poor posture and low muscle tone

Developmental Impact:

  • Delayed ability to participate in physical play

  • Poor coordination in sports and physical education

  • Reduced overall endurance

Emotional Impact:

  • Frustration with physical activities

  • Low self-esteem due to inability to keep up with peers

  • Fear of trying new movement tasks

Educational Impact:

  • Struggles with transitions between activities

  • Difficulty sitting upright for extended periods

  • Poor participation in physical education

Social Impact:

  • Avoidance of group sports or active play

  • Difficulty making friends due to lack of physical confidence

  • Isolation from peers who are more active

Activities and Ideas for Improvement: