The Importance of Core Strength
Preschool Program Newsletter: February 2024
We're excited to continue our discussion on child development, focusing this time on the significance of core strength. As an occupational therapist certified in Japan, our teacher Ms. Ayumi brings valuable insights to our understanding of how crucial core strength is for children.
Why is core strength essential in your child's development? Strong core muscles are fundamental for various activities such as balance, coordination, and posture. They enable children to sit comfortably at desks or on the floor, develop a mature pencil grasp, and master advanced fine motor skills like cutting, drawing, and writing. Essentially, strong core muscles lay the groundwork for proficient gross motor skills, which in turn support the development of fine motor skills.
Let's delve into the importance of core strength, particularly during mealtime. Core muscle strength plays a pivotal role in executing various movements smoothly. A weak core can lead to body instability, making tasks like eating, sitting for extended periods, or handling utensils challenging. Children may also find it hard to interact with peers appropriately, feel fatigued quickly, or struggle with balance and physical coordination.
As highlighted in our previous newsletter, children progress through developmental milestones in a sequential manner. From mastering head control to refining shoulder, arm, and hand movements, and from developing hip stability to enhancing leg, feet, and toe control, each step builds upon the last, forming the foundation for future physical interactions.
Food education is an important element at Aozora Community, emphasizing not only healthy eating but also the importance of table manners and proper dining etiquette. Before introducing chopsticks, it's essential to ensure that your child can perform the following:
Sit with a straightened spine, deeply and securely in the chair.
Keep thighs parallel to the floor.
Place the soles of the feet firmly on the floor.
Maintain a balanced, symmetrical posture without leaning.
Leave a space of one fist between the body and the table.
These same criteria can be applied when your child sits at a desk for coloring, writing, or playing with toys. If your child struggles to maintain proper posture, it may indicate a need to strengthen their core muscles.
Encourage your child to engage in core-strengthening activities at home with the following suggestions:
Animal walk (snake, crab, bear. And donkey)
Wheelbarrow
Cleaning the floor with a cloth
We hope this insight into the importance of core strength enriches your understanding of your child's development journey.