Coordination
How practical life work refines fine and gross motor skills
fetchpriority="high"
Developing Physical Skills Through Purposeful Movement
Practical life activities provide natural opportunities for children to develop and refine their coordination, both fine and gross motor skills. Through purposeful movement and manipulation, children develop the physical control and coordination that supports all areas of learning and daily life.
The precise movements required in practical life work help children develop hand-eye coordination, balance, and control. These physical skills are essential for academic work such as writing, as well as for daily activities and overall physical development.
Fine Motor Skills
Practical life activities require precise hand movements that develop fine motor skills. Activities such as pouring, spooning, and using tweezers help children develop the small muscle control needed for tasks like writing, buttoning, and using tools. These fine motor skills are essential for academic work and daily independence.
Gross Motor Skills
Many practical life activities involve larger movements that develop gross motor skills. Activities such as carrying trays, sweeping, and washing tables help children develop balance, coordination, and control of their larger muscle groups. These gross motor skills support overall physical development and confidence in movement.
Hand-Eye Coordination
Practical life work requires children to coordinate their hand movements with what they see, developing hand-eye coordination. This coordination is essential for tasks such as writing, cutting, and manipulating objects. The repeated practice in practical life activities helps children develop this important skill naturally.
Preparing for Writing
The fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination developed through practical life work directly prepare children for writing. When children have developed control and coordination through practical life activities, they are better prepared to hold a pencil, form letters, and write with confidence and ease.
Supporting Overall Development
The coordination developed through practical life work supports children's overall physical development and confidence. When children can move with control and coordination, they feel more confident in their physical abilities and are more willing to engage in physical activities and challenges.
Our Approach
At King City Montessori School, we recognize the importance of physical development for children's overall growth and learning. Our practical life activities are designed to support the natural development of coordination through purposeful, meaningful work that engages children's interest and supports their physical development.
We observe children's physical development and provide activities that are appropriate for their current level of coordination, gradually introducing more complex activities as children develop their skills. This respectful approach to physical development ensures that children build coordination naturally and confidently.
See Coordination in Action
Schedule a tour to see how practical life work develops physical skills
Schedule a Tour