Year R pupils have been practising their gross motor skills this week. Inspired by happiness and bubbles, we concentrated on making large round shapes using both arms.

 

Starting in the classroom, we practised a short dance which involved creating imaginary bubbles (circular movements with both arms) and then popping them. We then performed our routine to the song ‘Happiness’ before moving to the playground to continue our dance.

 

We returned to the classroom to make some art. Working on large scale paper with wax crayons and using both arms simultaneously, pupils drew large circular shapes to music. Later they went on to make long vertical lines.

 

Gross motor skills are those using the children’s whole bodies. Practising specific movements strengthens muscles and helps children to become increasingly confident, agile and flexible. These skills are essential and must be obtained before going on to develop fine motor skills and learning to write and draw.

 

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