Children with disabilities (CWD) tend to participate in fewer physical activities than typically developing children. During motor play, CWD often depend on teachers to provide direct instruction and frequent opportunities to practice motor skills, to interact with their peers, and learn new skills. To promote participation in physical activities…

Although the effects of focus of attention (FOA) on the performance of gross motor skills are now well understood, less is known about the role of FOA in naturalistic classroom settings where learners are engaged in the ongoing acquisition and refinement of complex motor skills. The purpose of this study, the first of its kind, was to explore how…

The early identification of motor difficulties through psychomotor assessment is fundamental for the planning of individualized and differentiated educational programs. In the field of motor activity, observation plays a crucial role. This is characterized by the knowledge of the level of psychomotor and auxiological development, the definition of…

Presents activities that physical educators can use to help young students who are still learning basic ball control skills. Students use a pinky ball (a small, low-bounce rubber ball) to stay on task while improving ball control skills. Games include seven-up, errors, box ball, and hit the coin. (SM)

Available from: American Association for the Education of the Severely/Profoundly Handicapped, 1600 West Armory Way, Seattle, Washington 98119 The article presents classroom activities and techniques for facilitating the acquisition of basic motor responses by profoundly retarded and multiply handicapped students. (CL)

This book illustrates why and how movements and dance are powerful tools for learning and creativity in K-6 classrooms. Designed to be a workshop on paper, the book helps teachers build on what they already know about movement and implement techniques that tap into children's natural interest in moving. Chapter 1,"Moving To Learn," explains the…

Examines why early development of motor skills is important, and presents easily implemented activities for 3- to 5-year-old children. Provides practical ideas for using large-muscle activities in both indoor and outdoor settings. Specific activities focus on use of balloons, blankets, and balls to achieve development. (SD)

This manual is for the use of elementary school teachers. It presents a systematic approach to teaching movement and ways of teaching physical education activities in the classroom rather than in a gymnasium or out-of-doors. Activity games that will help children develop flexibility, motor skills, and a sense of space and cooperation with others…

The purpose of this Child Development Associate (CDA) training module is to help the CDA intern learn to assess the child's level of large muscle development and provide appropriate activities to foster motor coordination. Objectives are stipulated, activities for achieving each objective are suggested, and an assessment checklist is provided. A…

Noting that the development of fundamental movement skills is basic to children's motor development, this booklet provides a guide for early childhood educators in planning movement experiences for children between 4 and 8 years. The booklet introduces a wide variety of appropriate practices to promote movement skill acquisition and increased…

This book deals with the promotion of body awareness through use of educational gymnastics, with handicapped or non-handicapped but poorly coordinated children of all age levels. The method provides an analytical approach to movement, encourages children to listen to language, and assists them in creating their own activities. The activities and…

Argues that to truly educate the whole child, teachers must address the needs of the mind and spirit in terms of the social/emotional, creative, and cognitive domains and the many ways in which movement promotes development in these areas. Provides sample activities and sources for information to that end. (Author/SD)

Recognizing the role of physical activity in helping young children to attain desired objectives, educators should continually be investigating avenues for involving children in daily physical activity. This paper presents the Active Living approach, a uniquely Canadian experience that encourages young children to be physically active every day.…

The second session of the Contemporary Elementary and Middle School Physical Education Conference was devoted to over 35 workshops and demonstrations of games and sports that may be used by teachers. Emphasis was placed on the development of individual skills, physical fitness through sports, and non-competitive games. Position papers were also…

This paper reviews instructional strategies for dealing with learning-disabled preschool children in mainstreamed classrooms. It focuses on the teacher's role in developing the child's abilities in the areas of social skills, choices and anxiety, sequencing and routine, transition periods, and motor skills. To enhance social skills, peer…