It's the little things. It's not always about a worksheet or drill and kill activities. While those can be appropriate and necessary at times, there are simple games that work on skills that are helpful and impactful for learning academics. The video describes the "why" behind the activities but I also wrote about them below.
The above activities are just throwing animals and a target and playing catch with fun stuffed animals. We have a balance board at home because I'm an OT. I realize many of you won't have that as an option. If you have a bosu ball, a seat cushion, or even a folded towel, that will also work. Or it may be a challenge even without your child standing on anything but the floor. Skills for throwing at a target include, eye hand coordination, force modulation, aim, shoulder strength, grasp and release, timing and rhythm. Skills for throwing and catching include eye hand coordination, visual tracking, crossing midline (visually and with the upper body), force modulation, aim, shoulder strength, grasp and release, and timing and rhythm. Many of these skills are also necessary for reading and writing. You can start by meeting your child where they are at. If they are struggling with attending and participating in the activity, you can make it as easy as possible so they can have success. Also, use a motivator like I talk about in the video. Let your child have something invested in the activity so you can get their best work. As it gets easier for them you can move the basket further away, have them participate longer before they get a reward etc. If you or a sibling make it look like it's fun, that might work too. Hopefully it will be something you and your child find fun to do together! LeAnn
1 Comment
4/14/2020 01:59:38 pm
I really like the videos. Great job and great article. Keeping kids entertained and engaged is so important to a happy house.
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AuthorLeAnn Wald Archives
May 2020
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