The more finely coordinated our bodies and minds, the more receptive we are to learning. Here are a few activities and materials that can foster growth in each area of development. This promotes large muscle development. Small muscle development involves getting finger muscles coordinated with eye movement so that a child can learn to read and write later. Provide child-size blunt scissors, old magazines, catalogs, and glue for cutting and pasting.
Drawing also promotes small muscle development.
Children can trace around small toys, puzzle pieces, cans, cookie cutters, or they can draw from their imaginations. Puzzles, snap blocks, tinkertoys, and nesting cups also help children develop in this way. Take advantage of learning opportunities that occur while you go about your daily routine. Learning how to get along with others takes practice and experience, so it's important that children have many opportunities to play with youngsters their age. While it is desirable for them to learn how to settle their differences, parents should be handy to offer guidance and suggestions when physical or psychological harm seems likely.