Physical development: physical impairment

The main early years physical development challenges are the same as those for communication and language, but in addition there are issues with:

• Fine motor control – using hands and fingers to dress and undress including use of buttons, zips and laces
• Maintaining good posture throughout physical activity or exertion
• Chewing and swallowing a range of foods as part of a healthy diet

You can:

• Plan for the child to use big outdoor equipment, taking into account numbers of staff needed.
• A physiotherapist will be able to demonstrate safe strategies for using swings, slides, trikes and climbing frames.
• Provide opportunities and space for rolling, crawling, propping and kneeling.
• Use specialist equipment (parallel bars, small ladder-back chairs and walking frames) to encourage movement.
• Provide time and space for a child learning to control and drive a power wheelchair, giving clear instructions.
• Use wider grip tools, such as spoons, paintbrushes and toothbrushes, to encourage grasp and independence.
• Encourage active participation in dressing. For example, push an arm through a sleeve or lift the head up through a jumper.
• Use balls and equipment that the child can see and hold.
• Slow down actions, giving the child time to try them out. For example roll a ball slowly past the child or slow the tempo of action songs and rhymes so they can join in.
• Use Games All Children Can Play for more ideas.
• Take advice from a speech and language therapist to develop the skills needed for eating and drinking.