Large Muscle Center
Young children are very active. Children also tend to value themselves on their ability to move and maneuver themselves. Because of this, they have a strong desire to develop their large muscles and coordination skills. At Preschool, we accomplish this in two ways by offering a large muscle area in the room. There you will find a balance beam and various large blocks. These items are rotated in and out of the room because of space restrictions.
The second phase of our large motor offering comes during our group activity time. We try and make it outside each day. Here the children play various games or just run to their hearts' content. If the weather is inclement, we make use of our movement records and other indoor games.
When both aspects of the program are combined, the children get a very well rounded schedule for large muscle development.
Educational Value
- There is opportunity here to develop the large muscles and strengthen the muscle system.
- This area promotes coordination of the large muscles as well as develops hand-eye coordination.
- Opportunities for developing depth perception are offered with games involving targets.
- This area allows for release of tension and stress reduction through acceptable physical activity.
- The child has the chance to exhibit the Christ-like behaviors of taking turns, encouragement of others, and sharing of materials and equipment.
- The child learns in this area how wonderfully he/she is made by God and all the different things his/her body can do.