Now that the Fall, rainy season is upon us and Winter is right around the corner, we thought we would share some of the gross motor activities used in Preschool 1 to keep the children active on days we have to stay indoors. There are many ways the children are able to use their gross motor skills within the classroom and we know it is very important to keep the children moving and have them create the big body movements that are much needed throughout the day. As educators we see the need for children wanting to climb and explore the world around them. In an indoor setting we want be able to meet this need, but in a safe manner. We really wanted to invest in some climbing pieces that were able to stay out in the room at all times and that the children had easy access to. Our indoor climber allows the children to not only fulfill their gross motor needs, but it allows them to practice turn-taking, problem-solving and it can increase their confidence and self-esteem. On cold and rainy days other materials are provided and rotated in and out of the classroom. We have a hopscotch mat that the children can jump from square to square, increasing their strength and balance. It also gives the children exposure to numbers and has them practicing counting from one to ten. Waiting and turn-taking occurs during this activity as well. Materials to build various obstacle courses are also available in the classroom. We use pylons and rings to play a ring toss game, allowing the children to stretch out their bodies when throwing the ring. Along with maintaining their balance during the throw, this games also allows the children to practice their hand-eye coordination. The pylons and rings can also be used during races, allowing the children to weave through, or jump in and out of. The centre has a shared mini trampoline that is brought into the room when asked for or when needed. Balance is strengthened when jumping and this tool also helps the children with emotional regulation. It allows them to get rid of energy that is stored up and be released in an appropriate manner. Preschool 1 is well known for our fun dance/exercise parties. YouTube and the projector are utilized to play fun, engaging music that the children can move and dance to. The children enjoy stretching their bodies to the various yoga moves or following the different movements shown in the brain break videos. When dancing to one of our favourite creators, DannyGo, the children move freely to the music, expressing themselves however the music is making them feel. Below is a list of YouTube channels that we enjoy in the classroom, for you to use at home as well.
https://www.youtube.com/@CosmicKidsYoga
https://www.youtube.com/@DannyGo
https://www.youtube.com/@PEwithMrG
https://www.youtube.com/@BeWellPlayed
As stated before, we see the children's gross motor skills at play all of the time while outside. However, these skills need to be supported indoors as well. Keeping the children engaged in play and their bodies moving, makes for a successful day indoors.
