Movement play is vital to young children's cognitive development as well as physical skills, says Anne O'Connor

Baby Orson is lying on a mat on the floor. His father lies down next to him and copies his movements. The two of them are next to each other, waving their arms and legs. Dad can see the world from his baby's perspective. Orson clutches at his own feet.

By playing these kinds of games, Orson is learning about where the various parts of his body are in relation to each other. The presence of his responsive father, not only admiring his actions, but also mimicking his movements while talking and encouraging him on, helps to turn the experience into one that builds brain development as well as healthy muscles and physical co-ordination.

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