Early Childhood Standards of Quality for ... - State of Michigan

ELE: Physical Development and HealthPhysicalDevelopmentand HealthGood physical health and well-being, and a safe environment contribute toimproved learning; e.g., cognitive skills, the promotion of agility and strength,neural processing, kinesthetic confidence, general body competence, and overallautonomy. Physical development (fine and gross/large motor) is important tothe achievement of general health. Gross motor development enhances bodyawareness, understanding of spatial relationships, and cognitive growth. Finemotor development fosters dexterity as well as coordination of the hand and eyewhen using the small muscles of the fingers and hands in a variety of activities.Children learn to value their bodies and keep themselves healthy and safe. Inthe preschool years children improve movement skills, cooperative and socialinteraction skills, and develop greater knowledge about the importance ofphysical activity and exercise. They begin to learn that their behavior affects theirhealth and safety and recognize that not all children can participate in activities inthe same way.Physical Development1. Early Learning Expectation: Children increase their ability tounderstand and control their bodies and learn that regularphysical activity can enhance their overall physical, social, andmental health. [HSCOF-PDH 8.3.2]Children typically:1. Begin to recognize and learn the names of body parts and their locations.2. Begin to understand spatial awareness for themselves, others, and theirenvironment.96 Michigan Department of Education