The "3D" approach to providing speech/language service for developmentally delayed preschoolers involves three instructors (speech/language therapist, classroom teacher, aide) plus three motor tasks (gross, fine, oral), while bringing speech therapy into the classroom. The article discusses team planning sessions and provides a sample curriculum…

Notes that toddler environments should take into account the behaviors and skills characteristic of this age. Discusses toddlers' physical and motor skills, affective development, and cognitive development. Offers suggestions for toddler environments, and for routines and schedules, such as arrival and departure, naptime, diapering and toileting,…

A theory of motor skill performance in dentistry is presented, and studies of its use in improving preclinical laboratory instruction are reviewed. The model explains how the mind directs the hand so specific outcomes can be achieved, a theory which can be operationalized in instructional design. (MSE)

In the third of a series of articles on teaching psychomotor skills in dental education, the design of instructional materials is discussed. Steps include identifying appropriate teaching strategies for the tasks; organizing and sequencing subskills; identifying and collecting common errors; and drafting learning exercises for each subskill. (MSE)

Explains the importance of performance assessment in physical education, addressing two questions that physical educators must consider. The first, what to assess, involves locating and identifying student achievement targets. The second, how to describe performance, includes identifying and describing a vision of success. Two examples from the…

Teaching methods to develop the handwriting skills of children who have low vision are discussed. Difficulties are seen to result from problems with motor skills, visual factors, and mechanical difficulties. Stressed throughout is adaptation of the handwriting program to the particular needs of the individual child. (DB)

This report presents a revision of the Head Start Child Outcomes Framework (2000), renamed The Head Start Child Development and Learning Framework: Promoting Positive Outcomes in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children 3-5 Years Old. The Framework outlines the essential areas of development and learning that are to be used by Head Start programs…

This paper begins with a discussion of terminology and of the distinctions between bodybuilding, powerlifting, and weightlifting. Weightlifting is presented as the only weight training-associated sport in the Olympic Games. The overhead movements and bodyweight classes involved in the sport are described, and advantages of free weight training are…

Techniques for modifying toys for children with cerebral palsy to enhance active, independent use of play materials are described. The most successful techniques include stabilization; creating boundaries; and use of grasping aids, manipulation aids, and switches. Good positioning is emphasized to maximize controlled and relaxed movement and…

Severe cerebral palsied children require adapted physical education activities, and teachers' consultation with physical therapists can help in planning appropriate activities for them. Gross motor activities (such as sitting T-ball and wheelchair knockdown) that have been successfully used with elementary and middle school students are suggested.…

Focusing on the ST-ART shorthand theory presentation method, this article discusses the following principles of language-motor skill acquisition: mental practice, symbol-sound association, verbal mediation, recitation and articulation, hierarchy of habits, overlearning, learner anxiety, sense modality, guided practice, kinesthetic imagery, visual…

The study of creative movement, dramatic expression, and kinesthetic awareness can develop students' skills not only in movement but also in communication and leadership. Suggested kinesthetic activities follow the four phases of: physical movement, examining student responses, stimulating the imagination, and analyzing and sharing the experience.…

Discusses the nature and extent of problem of prenatal drug exposure. Expresses concern about the increase in number of women of childbearing age testing positive for drug use. Explains the social, cognitive, behavioral, and motor deficiencies resulting from such drug exposure and consequent issues and recommendations for early childhood…

This article identifies possible causes of handwriting difficulties and suggests activities to facilitate the development of hand muscles and handwriting skills. It discusses handwriting readiness, wrist stability, hand development activities, pencil grasp, hand dominance, eye-hand coordination, basic strokes, general readiness skills, writing…

Standard one of the National Association for Sport and Physical Education states students should demonstrate competency in many, and proficiency in some, movement forms. This article presents recommendations to help students achieve motor skill competency and proficiency, providing task progressions for elementary students and illustrating…