Patricia
49.5 million kids were enrolled in a public school in 2021, with the number increasing as time has continued. One thing that is assessed outside of the information kids learn in school is their fine motor skills.
As an educator, you might wonder how to assess a child’s gross motor skills appropriately. We’ve created a list complete with some tips that can be used.
Not to mention, you’ll find some assessment techniques for teachers that will ensure you’re creating an environment that sets each student up for success, so read on.
Set a Routine
Children thrive in situations that provide them with routine. Having a routine allows kids to become comfortable with how things are happening, especially if they are young and it’s their first time attending school.
Routine can also aid in reducing anxiety and nervousness that comes from being away from their parents for the duration of the day. Allowing for physical activity at some point in this routine is fantastic.
Not only does it provide students with a break from everyday activities, but it also allows you to assess how well they are doing and if their gross motor skills are developing properly.
Make Necessary Accommodations
Not all children are the same. There will be times when you have children in your classroom that will require some accommodations to ensure the classroom provides an environment that will help set the student up for success in their academic journey.
When you check out learningcharms.com, you’re going to find different strategies and tips that will ensure your classroom is set up to meet the needs of all students. It should also provide ample space for occupational therapy activities if they are needed by one or a few of the students you have that need these accommodations.
Differentiate Motor Breaks
With the number of breaks you provide during the day, you need to ensure you differentiate each break. This will help keep the break fresh for your students and will make things fun for them no matter what activity the break consists of.
We recommend keeping each break no longer than a maximum of twenty minutes and ensuring that it challenges the students but also relaxes them. There have been several studies that show the benefits of having frequent motor breaks.
It can help to increase testing scores. Plus, it can help students who have problems with ongoing impulse control. Other things that breaks for gross motor skills can help with include:
- Improves organizational skills
- Better attitude in the classroom environment
- Improved verbal comprehension
Motor Skills and Children
When it comes to assessing the fine motor skills in children, there are several ways to do so without them realizing they are being assessed. We recommend making these breaks a routine part of their daily activities and differentiating the breaks.
Want to know more about similar topics? Check out some of the other posts in this section of our website.
