EEC3171
Rasmussen College
EEC3171 Section 01 Beyond the Basics of Health, Safety, and Nutrition
The brain of a child is continually growing and developing. Every interaction,
reaction, and environmental influence effects the growing brain either positively or
negatively. Research shows that the brain changes over time. Brains develop during
different stages of life. While the brain is developing there are optimal periods that allow for
the best learning in certain areas of development called windows of opportunity. During
these times learning in specific areas can develop at an amazing rate (SafeGard).
Movement/ Gross Motor Development (Ages 4-5)
Running
Running is a great way for children to build endurance and stay healthy.
At this age children should be able to run with control. This means they can
make sudden stops and change directions. To encourage this, educators can
encourage children to play running games, such as, Tag or Red Light, Green
Light during gross motor time.
Throwing/Catching
Throwing and catching helps work muscles, improves hand-eye coordination,
and increases fitness. Educators can encourage throwing and catching by
taking children outside and letting them throw a soft ball or bean bag back and
forth to each other. They could also set up a hoop or some type of target for
children to throw their balls at.
Balancing
Balancing is the ability to keep a controlled body position while performing a
Rasmussen College
EEC3171 Section 01 Beyond the Basics of Health, Safety, and Nutrition
The brain of a child is continually growing and developing. Every interaction,
reaction, and environmental influence effects the growing brain either positively or
negatively. Research shows that the brain changes over time. Brains develop during
different stages of life. While the brain is developing there are optimal periods that allow for
the best learning in certain areas of development called windows of opportunity. During
these times learning in specific areas can develop at an amazing rate (SafeGard).
Movement/ Gross Motor Development (Ages 4-5)
Running
Running is a great way for children to build endurance and stay healthy.
At this age children should be able to run with control. This means they can
make sudden stops and change directions. To encourage this, educators can
encourage children to play running games, such as, Tag or Red Light, Green
Light during gross motor time.
Throwing/Catching
Throwing and catching helps work muscles, improves hand-eye coordination,
and increases fitness. Educators can encourage throwing and catching by
taking children outside and letting them throw a soft ball or bean bag back and
forth to each other. They could also set up a hoop or some type of target for
children to throw their balls at.
Balancing
Balancing is the ability to keep a controlled body position while performing a
