McMaster University published a resource on physical activity for preschoolers. A recent study indicated that preschool children should take at least 6000 steps every day participating in at least 180 minutes of physical activity per day of any intensity. By age 5, children should participate in 60 minutes of energetic play (ie biking, running, playing […]
A recent study in Autism describes the gross and fine motor skills of a cross-sectional group of 162 children with autism spectrum disorder between the ages of 12 and 36 months. Age equivalents were determined for gross and fine motor skills for all children. The results indicated gross motor and fine motor differences became significantly […]
I have posted before on good fine motor skills in preK translating into better grades in Grade 2, but I came across this video which is helpful to explain to someone why handwriting is still important in this day of technology. This is the video from Florida International:
The American Academy of Pediatrics has published new research on early identification and evaluation of motor delays and variations in muscle tone. A multidisciplinary expert panel developed an algorithm for the surveillance and screening of children for motor delays using formal developmental screenings at 9,18,30 and 48 month well child visits. The additional 48 month […]
Did you ever stop to assess whether some of your students have truly learned a new skill when you mark off “goal achieved” on a IEP? Meaning has the child learned the skill so that it can be performed with no physical or verbal cues? Does the child choose to use the skill in all […]
Recent research was completed that compared treadmill training versus overground walking effects on balance skills using a randomized controlled trial with blinded evaluator. The participants were children with cerebral palsy ages 3-12, GMFCS levels I through III. The experimental group received 30 minute treadmill training session two times per week for 7 weeks. The control […]
Check out this free printable visual spatial, visual motor and motor planning puzzle from our latest ebook, Crossing Paths. Get the FREE sample page.
Get 10 free blank picture frames to print to create some collaborative artwork and promote wrist extension. Go to YourTherapySource to get the free frames to print.
A recent study in the Journal of Pediatrics indicated the benefits of exergaming for children. The researchers studied 15 children, ages 9-11 years old, participating in high intensity exergaming, low intensity exergaming and a graded exercise test on a treadmill. The results indicated the following: high intensity exergaming (Kinect hurdles) was equivalent to moderate intensity […]
Here is a fun idea – have kids create their own activities to do over the summer break. Start now during part of a therapy session to assemble and teach students some games or activities that they can do over the summer for carry over of therapy skills and to keep them busy. Once you […]