Grounded in best practices and current research, this hands-on resource connects the dots that link brain activity, motor and sensory development, movement, and early learning. The expert authors unveil the Kinetic Scale: a visual map of the active learning needs of infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and primary graders that fits each child's…

These brief guidelines for a muscular flexibility program state that the purpose of such a program is to increase the range of motion in order to avoid injuries and eliminate awkwardness in physical activities. A flexibility program is described as an extension of the warm-up period and should be an ongoing, permanent effort to lengthen muscles. A…

Basic behavioral processes involved in motor control based on theories of motor control and learning are outlined using the teaching of two-point touch cane technique as an application of the theories. The authors assert the importance of repetition, practice, and sufficient learning time. (Author/CL)

Self-regulation and self-determination are part of a continuum of behaviors that are acquired through interaction with the social and physical environment and through problem solving based on experiences that begin in infancy and build throughout early childhood. These abilities should be nurtured early for all children, especially within the…

Examples are provided of ways in which gross motor activities are integrated into mathematics, language arts, social studies, art, and music and creative movement concepts for preschool- and primary-age children with special needs. (CL)

This paper describes six Ultimate Flag Games which offer a change from traditional games and sports that are usually geared toward athletically inclined students. These new games, aimed at middle school through college students, allow for success from the least-skilled through the most athletically talented students. Players are ability grouped…

Five outdoor games beneficial to the development of children's motor skills are described. (LH)

Designed with children in mind, this workbook lays out the fundamentals of the italic alphabet so that it can be used by teachers and other adults as a guide in teaching children. The workbook is based on the idea that, besides being both "beautiful and readable," the italic alphabet has the advantage of presenting a logical progression…

The author discusses mathematics techniques for computing instantaneous velocities from data recorded via stroboscopic photography. (MJB)

Characteristics and uses of a soft play room completely filled with soft modular play equipment are described. Gross motor activity and social interaction characterize play by young children in this environment. (DB)

The author criticizes the lack of opportunity given to children to learn the motor patterns involved in handwriting and describes a sequence of chalkboard activities to promote the perceptual motor skills required. Illustrations of the sequence are provided. (CL)

Descriptions of three games appropriate for elementary school and handicapped children in physical education are provided. (JMF)

Perceptual training activities are described for use in the regular primary or intermediate class that will not disrupt the academic program. Materials and procedures are considered for developing visual and haptic abilities, visual memory and figure-ground discrimination, and auditory, olfactory, taste, and motor skills. (CL)

Six recreational activities for elementary aged children involving the use of a ball are described. The activities are designed to develop personal and physical skills and teach children to bounce, dribble, catch, throw, or roll a ball with improved effectiveness. (PHR)