- 1). Children like to imitate adults. When teaching a movement, model it slowly so that the children can see the movement they are going to imitate. Pare down the movement to its most fundamental actions.
- 2). Break up the movement into small manageable steps and repeat it numerous times. As you perform each step, say what you are doing so the action is reinforced both visually and auditory.
- 3). Encourage and praise the children as they practice the basic steps of the movement and are able to eventually put the entire movement together and learn more complex refinements to the movement. Remind the children of the steps of the movements and consider letting them practice the movement to music to help keep their interest or play musical songs that incorporate actions.
- 4). Walk around and observe the practice. If any children have difficulty mastering the movement, manipulate their bodies so they can feel what they are supposed to be doing.
- 5). Consider modifications that will make it easier to perform the action and may ultimately increase the child's strength allowing him to eventually complete the desired movement. For example, many children can complete modified push-ups on their knees, but have trouble doing a traditional push-up.
- 6). Train muscles and help improve gross motor skills with simple games involving running, jumping, climbing and other actions. Many children experience improved motor skills from cooperative group play, but some children may benefit from specialized occupational or physical therapy to improve poor motor skills. Fine motor skills can be honed with drawing and cutting activities.
- 7). Let the children watch a video that demonstrates the movement or models exercises. Use mats to make children more comfortable as they try to master exercises that strengthen and tone upper and lower body muscles. Children can climb ropes, do push-ups and perform crawling exercises to increase body strength.
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