Gross motor skills are those in which large muscle groups are involved to generate a movement. These muscle groups refer to those found in the extremities, such as the arms, legs, and torso. Within these abilities are common acts such as walking, running, jumping, bending over and others.
Therefore, acquiring gross motor skills correctly will be essential for the development of the baby. Motor skills they begin to develop practically from the moment of birth, your baby will naturally begin to strengthen his muscles within a few weeks of birth. And this knowledge and these new capabilities will gradually multiply over time.
The natural way to develop muscles is through play, exploration through a child's curiosity, and exercise. Children generally acquire these abilities naturally, but there are many cases in which it is necessary to work on this fundamental part in the development of the child. When this happens, the normal thing is that the pediatrician has observed this condition and surely the child is being cared for by specialists.
Stimulate skills from home
But in addition to the work of specialists, there are many ways to help your child develop their skills, both gross motor skills and skills. fine motor at home, supporting you in the game. Young children spend most of their time at home, so the best way to exercise their bodies is at home. Through age-appropriate play and daily activities, you can help your little one to achieve his goals.
The best way to stimulate your child is by letting him play freely. Through your own curiosity, it will lead you to want to reach for the objects that are around you. When you lift your head, move your body trying to crawl and even get up, they are natural gestures that help development of their motor skills.
On many occasions, the fear that the baby could be harmed leads many parents to stop this natural exercise of the child. Something that notably interferes with its development, therefore, do not worry if it stumbles or falls, you just have to be by its side to ensure that it does not hit hard but without restricting its exploratory nature.
Activities to develop gross motor skills
- Dance every day With your children, music is a medicine for the soul, the best way to calm anxiety, to forget difficulties and also, it is a great exercise for everyone. Therefore, do not stop playing music at home whenever you can, in addition to motivating your child's motor skills, you will be preparing him for acquire your next skill, speech.
- Race gamesYou can play at home but whenever the weather allows it, try to do it on the street. Always adapt the games to the age of your child, to prevent him from falling and hurting himself. As the child progresses, you can go incorporating small obstacles on the tour. Games that include little races, such as the bandana game, are perfect for working on gross motor skills.
- Play with ballsDepending on the age of your child, you can vary the game. First play sitting on the floor, passing the ball so that it works the muscles of the upper body. When he grows up, you can incorporate leg games, kick the ball etc.
These are just some ideas with which you can work on gross motor skills with your child, it is important to get involved in their development even if it occurs naturally. However, if you notice that your little one does not reach the normal goals for each stage, do not hesitate to consult your pediatrician. Most cases are solved with a little early stimulation by specialists.