Fostering Children’s Motor Skills in the Hills District
At Dooral Early Learning Centre Middle Dural and Kenthurst, we believe that a healthy body supports a curious mind. Our ‘Get Moving’ program is a core part of our Get Moving curriculum, specifically designed to support the developmental growth of children’s physical and gross motor skills.Located on Old Northern Road in Middle Dural and Kenthurst Road, our boutique centres offer the space and professional guidance your child needs to explore their physical capabilities. Whether your little one is just starting to crawl or preparing for big school, we provide a nurturing ‘second family’ environment where they can grow with confidence.
The Importance of Gross Motor Development
Gross motor skills are the foundation for everyday movements, from walking and running to complex tasks like climbing and jumping. Our program aligns with the Early Years Learning Framework to ensure every child reaches their milestones through joyful, active play.Did you know? Stability and balance are the precursors to fine motor skills. By strengthening their core and legs in our natural play environment, children are better prepared for the classroom environment and school readiness tasks like sitting and writing.
Our Comprehensive Get Moving Activities
We implement a diverse range of games and experiences tailored to different age groups. Our purpose-built rooms and expansive outdoor areas allow for both structured challenges and free-play exploration.- Stability Skills: We use wooden blocks, yoga, and balance challenges with hula hoops to help children find their centre.
- Locomotor Skills: Using parachutes, bike paths, and sloped grass areas, we encourage travelling actions like galloping, hopping, and rolling.
- Target Practice: Children develop hand-eye coordination through soccer goals, basketball hoops, and even homemade lawn bowls using recycled materials.
- Striking and Catching: From totem tennis to catching lightweight scarves, we focus on manipulative skills that build dexterity.
Building Confidence Through Movement
The transition from toddlerhood to school is a significant journey. By focusing on physical health, we help our children build the resilience and physical stamina required for their next big steps.| Skill Category | Learning Experience | Developmental Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Balancing | Static poses & Obstacle courses | Core strength & concentration |
| Jumping | Sand pit long jump & trampolines | Bone density & explosive power |
| Target Skills | Bean bag toss & soccer goals | Spatial awareness & coordination |
“The outdoor learning environment and playground are beautiful and the children are always given time to engage with nature.” — Katie F., Dooral ParentWe invite local families to visit our Middle Dural and Kenthurst centres to see our experienced educators in action. Our long-term educators are dedicated to providing a safe, loving environment where your child can flourish physically and emotionally. Book a Tour today!
At Dooral Early Learning Centre, we use the OWNA app that also helps us keep families connected to their child’s learning journey. Educators can share individual learning goals, activities, observations and developmental progress, giving parents and carers a clearer picture of what their child is learning and how they are progressing over time. This ongoing communication helps create a stronger connection between the centre, educators and families while supporting each child’s individual interests and development.