Balance is not something we have, it is something we do every day. The more children move, the more the essential vestibular system (see box) is stimulated and the more fluent children’s movement becomes.
Daily movement is fundamental to development. For example, movement ensures links to hearing and vision are established and children’s emotional security may be supported by the brain’s limbic system and the vestibular system working closely together. The more ‘automatic’ movements become, the more children’s brains are freed up to absorb higher-order learning.
What type of movements best support the optimal functioning of these critical skills from birth? How can practitioners build this into their day-to-day practice? Many external sports and activity providers include a significant element of balance and co-ordination, but to what extent is this inclusive and does it embrace the breadth of what children need to know?
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