1.

IMPORTANCE OF HANT -EYE COORDINATION AND MINIPULATIVE SKILLS IN

THE DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATIONAL SKILLS SUCH AS WRITING.
The term "gross motor" development refers to physical skills that use large body
movements, normally involving the entire body. In the sense used here, gross means
"large" rather than "disgusting."
Between ages 2 and 3 years, young

children stop "toddling," or using the awkward, wide-legged robot-like stance that is the
hallmark of new walkers. As they develop a smoother gait, they also develop the ability
to run, jump, and hop. Children of this age can participate in throwing and catching
games with larger balls. They can also push themselves around with their feet while
sitting on a riding toy.
Children who are 3 to 4 years old can climb up stairs using a method of bringing both
feet together on each step before proceeding to the next step (in contrast, adults place
one foot on each step in sequence). However, young children may still need some
"back-up" assistance to prevent falls in case they become unsteady in this new skill.
Children of this age will also be stumped when it's time to go back down the stairs; they
tend to turn around and scoot down the stairs backwards. 3 to 4 year olds can jump and
hop higher as their leg muscles grow stronger. Many can even hop on one foot for short
periods of time.
Also at this age (3 to 4 years), children develop better upper body mobility. As a result,
their catching and throwing abilities improve in speed and accuracy. In addition, they
can typically hit a stationary ball from a tee with a bat. As whole body coordination
improves, children of this age can now peddle and steer a tricycle. They can also kick a
larger ball placed directly in front of their bodies.
By ages 4 to 5, children can go up and down the stairs alone in the adult fashion (i.e.,
taking one step at a time). Their running continues to smooth out and increase in speed.
Children of this age can also skip and add spin to their throws. They also have more
control when riding their tricycles (or bicycles), and can drive them faster.
During ages 5 to 6, young children continue to refine earlier skills. They're running even
faster and can start to ride bicycles with training wheels for added stability. In addition,
they can step sideways. Children of this age begin mastering new forms of physical play
such as the jungle gym, and begin to use the see-saw, slide, and swing on their own.
They often start jumping rope, skating, hitting balls with bats, and so on. Many children
of this age enjoy learning to play organized sports such as soccer, basketball, t-ball or
swimming. In addition, 5 to 6 year olds often like to participate in physical extracurricular
activities such as karate, gymnastics, or dance. Children continue to refine and improve
their gross motor skills through age 7 and beyond.