Play Move Improve

Play Move Improve

By Robyn PapworthEducation
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Play Move Improve episodes

  • What are the 3 fundamental developmental milestones that children need for kindergarten and school

    Play Move Improve Podcast: Essential Fundamental Movement Skills for School Readiness


    Episode Summary

    In this episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the changing landscape of fundamental movement skills needed for school readiness. She highlights three crucial skills that many three-year-olds are struggling with and provides practical strategies to improve these skills.

    1. Recent changes in children's environments, including increased screen time and social isolation, have impacted fundamental movement skills.
    2. Many three-year-olds are struggling with basic skills like rolling, crawling, and visual tracking.
    3. These skills are crucial for school readiness and overall development.
      1. Visual Tracking
      2. Rolling
      3. Jumping with Two Feet
        1. Incorporate visual tracking exercises in morning routines (e.g., following a moving pencil or beanbag)
        2. Use rolling as a transition activity (e.g., rolling across a mat to go outside)
        3. Practice jumping with two feet during daily activities (e.g., jumping to wash hands or get a hat)
          • These skills are foundational for more complex tasks in school
          • Early intervention can lead to quick improvements
          • Addressing these skills can help with overall coordination and learning readiness


            • Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist and developmental educator passionate about improving children's movement skills for better learning outcomes.

            • Integrate these three activities into your daily routines with children
            • Provide feedback on improvements observed
            • Stay tuned for more tips and advice on Play Move Improve
              • Website: playmoveimprove.com.au
              • Leave a review on iTunes or Spotify


                • Remember, focusing on these fundamental movement skills can significantly impact a child's readiness for school and overall development!

                6 min
              • Back to Basics: Foundational Movement Skills for School Success

                Play Move Improve Podcast: Bridging the Gap in Children's Foundational Movement Skills


                Episode Summary

                In this episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the current challenges in children's development and the critical importance of foundational movement skills. She emphasizes the need to focus on basic skills rather than rushing to meet academic expectations.

                1. Many children are struggling with basic developmental skills that were once common.
                2. Changes in lifestyle, including smaller living spaces and increased screen time, are impacting children's physical development.
                3. Foundational movement skills are crucial for later academic success, including reading and writing.
                4. Educators and parents need to focus on meeting children where they are developmentally rather than pushing them to meet arbitrary standards.
                  1. Crawling: Essential for brain development and reading skills
                  2. Rolling: Important for spatial awareness and body coordination
                  3. Basic ball skills: Develops hand-eye coordination and attention span
                  4. Visual tracking: Fundamental for reading and focusing
                    • They form the foundation for more complex academic skills like reading and writing
                    • They help develop spatial awareness, which is crucial for tasks like packing a bag or sitting properly
                    • They contribute to overall physical and cognitive development
                      • Curriculum expectations often don't match children's developmental readiness
                      • Reduced outdoor play and physical activity due to smaller living spaces
                      • The "YouTube attention span" phenomenon
                        • Incorporate hills and varied terrain in play areas
                        • Encourage repetitive play with balls (throwing, catching, rolling)
                        • Start with larger balls (e.g., beach balls) for younger children
                        • Focus on basic movements like crawling and rolling, even for older children who missed these milestones


                          • Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist and developmental educator passionate about helping children build strong foundational movement skills for better learning outcomes.

                          • Free handouts available
                          • "Let's Move" program
                          • Lodi book for focus and self-regulation
                            • Share this information with educators and parents who might benefit


                              • Leave a review on iTunes or Spotify


                              Remember, building strong foundational movement skills is crucial for a child's overall development and future academic success!

                              10 min
                            • How children's interoception sensory challenges may impact their toileting

                              Understanding and Supporting Toileting Challenges in Children


                              Episode Summary

                              In this candid episode, Robyn Papworth shares her personal experience with her daughter Phoebe's toileting challenges. She discusses the role of interoception in toileting, offers practical strategies, and emphasizes the importance of a patient, individualized approach.

                              1. Interoception, the internal body awareness sense, plays a crucial role in toileting.
                              2. Children may struggle with recognizing wet or dry sensations, affecting toileting.
                              3. Occupational therapy can provide valuable insights and strategies for toileting challenges.
                              4. Every child's development is unique, and it's important not to rush or compare to arbitrary timelines.
                              5. Environmental factors in bathrooms can impact a child's comfort and willingness to use the toilet.
                                • Interoception is the sense of internal body awareness (e.g., feeling hot, cold, hungry, or needing the bathroom)
                                • Some children struggle to recognize these internal sensations
                                • This can affect their ability to know when they need to use the toilet or when they're wet
                                  1. Use descriptive language to help children connect with bodily sensations
                                  2. Practice identifying wet and dry sensations through play (e.g., wet and dry sponges)
                                  3. Incorporate sensory activities into daily chores (e.g., laundry, dishes)
                                  4. Use hand-on-tummy technique to encourage body awareness
                                  5. Adjust bathroom environments for comfort and privacy (e.g., soft curtains, stickers on the ceiling)
                                  6. Be mindful of sensory issues in public bathrooms (e.g., hand dryers, water taps)
                                    • Every child develops at their own pace
                                    • Night-time dryness often comes later and shouldn't be rushed
                                    • Consult with an occupational therapist for personalized strategies
                                    • Keep a positive attitude and avoid shaming or pressuring the child


                                      • Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, and mother who shares her professional expertise and personal experiences to help parents and educators support children's development.

                                      • Try the suggested strategies and share which ones you found most helpful

                                        • Connect with Play Move Improve

                                        • Website: playmoveimprove.com.au
                                        • Facebook: Play Move Improve
                                        • Join our free online community: Play Move Improve Online Community
                                        • Leave a review on iTunes or Spotify


                                          • Remember, every child's journey is unique. Patience, understanding, and the right strategies can make a big difference in navigating toileting challenges. Join our online community for more support and resources!

                                          19 min
                                        • 5 motor development skills that children learn with gymnastics

                                          Play Move Improve Podcast: Five Essential Movements in Gymnastics for Child Development


                                          Episode Summary

                                          In this episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses five key movements in gymnastics that are crucial for child development. She shares personal experiences with her son Hugh and offers insights for gymnastics coaches and parents.

                                          1. Gymnastics can play a vital role in developing fundamental movement skills and building confidence.
                                          2. Five essential movements in gymnastics that support child development:
                                            3. a. Reflex integration
                                            b. Jumping
                                            c. Crawling and climbing
                                            d. Heel-to-toe balance
                                            e. Vestibular system development
                                            1. Reflex Integration
                                            2. Jumping
                                            3. Crawling and Climbing
                                            4. Heel-to-Toe Balance
                                            5. Vestibular System Development
                                              • Slow down movements to improve control and body awareness
                                              • Use music or verbal cues to guide movement timing
                                              • Incorporate visual tracking exercises during activities
                                              • Start with ground-based activities before progressing to equipment


                                                • Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, and mother who shares her professional expertise and personal experiences to help parents, educators, and gymnastics coaches support children's development.

                                                • Try incorporating these movements into gymnastics programs or at-home activities
                                                  • Share experiences and feedback on the strategies discussed
                                                  • Join the upcoming webinar for more in-depth information
                                                    • Website: playmoveimprove.com.au
                                                    • Join our free online community: Play Move Improve Online Community
                                                    • Share this episode with friends and family


                                                      • Remember, gymnastics can play a crucial role in developing fundamental movement skills and building confidence in children. These five key movements provide a foundation for overall physical and cognitive development.

                                                      25 min
                                                    • How to support children with autism with their clumsiness and balance skills

                                                      Motor Development and Balance Challenges in Children with Autism


                                                      Episode Summary

                                                      In this episode, Robyn Papworth discusses the motor development and balance challenges often seen in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). She explains the complexities of balance, the impact of sensory processing differences, and offers strategies to support motor skill development in children with ASD.

                                                      1. Motor functioning challenges are often present in children with ASD, alongside social interaction and communication difficulties.
                                                      2. Balance involves multiple systems: visual, vestibular, and somatosensory.
                                                      3. Children with ASD may struggle with proactive and reactive balance.
                                                      4. Tippy-toe walking is common in ASD and can further complicate balance.
                                                      5. Engaging children with ASD in motor activities requires understanding their interests and sensory needs.
                                                        • Low muscle tone, especially in facial muscles
                                                        • Difficulties with proactive balance (preparing for changes in terrain)
                                                        • Challenges with reactive balance (responding to unexpected obstacles)
                                                        • Sensory processing differences affecting balance and coordination
                                                        • Impact of tippy-toe walking on stability and balance
                                                          1. Identify 5 key interests of the child (e.g., insects, cars, dinosaurs)
                                                          2. Incorporate interests into balance and motor activities
                                                          3. Use visual aids (e.g., picture cards) in activities
                                                          4. Start with short, achievable activities (1-2 minutes)
                                                          5. Gradually increase difficulty and duration of activities
                                                          6. Focus on building confidence and trust in their body
                                                            • Print 5 different insect pictures (postcard size)
                                                            • Spread pictures on the ground
                                                            • Have child jump or hop onto each picture
                                                            • Variation: Put pictures on wall and throw a ball at them while standing on one foot
                                                              • Understand the frustration children may feel when their body doesn't cooperate
                                                              • Recognize that motor challenges may be visible before social and communication difficulties
                                                              • Early intervention in motor skills can be beneficial


                                                                • Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist and developmental educator specializing in supporting children with various developmental needs, including autism spectrum disorder.

                                                                • Play Move Improve podcast episode on balance
                                                                • Upcoming episode on the cerebellum
                                                                • Autism webinar (check website for details)
                                                                  • Share your child's top 5 interests in the comments for personalized activity suggestions


                                                                    • Reach out for more information or support

                                                                    • Join our free online community for ongoing discussions and resources: Play Move Improve Online Community
                                                                      • Website: playmoveimprove.com.au
                                                                      • Facebook: Play Move Improve
                                                                      • Podcast: Play Move Improve Podcast


                                                                        • Remember, every child with autism is unique. These strategies can be adapted to suit individual needs and interests.

                                                                        16 min
                                                                      • Embracing Play Schemas for Powerful Early Learning

                                                                        Play Move Improve Podcast: Understanding and Managing Play Schemas in Early Childhood Settings


                                                                        ## Episode Summary

                                                                        In this episode, Robyn Papworth discusses the importance of play schemas in early childhood development and offers strategies for educators and parents to manage and support these behaviors in various settings.


                                                                        ## Key Points

                                                                        1. Play schemas are repetitive behaviors that help children explore and understand their world.

                                                                        2. Common play schemas include trajectory (throwing) and transporting (moving objects).

                                                                        3. These behaviors can be challenging for educators and parents but are crucial for development.

                                                                        4. There's an increase in play schema behaviors in older age groups (3-6 years) than previously observed.

                                                                        5. Strategies can be implemented to support play schemas while managing the learning environment.


                                                                        ## Understanding Play Schemas

                                                                        - Play schemas are developmental phases children go through to explore their world

                                                                        - Examples: transporting objects, throwing (trajectory), dumping

                                                                        - These behaviors help children understand cause and effect, object permanence, and their impact on the environment


                                                                        ## Challenges in Educational Settings

                                                                        - Increased occurrence of play schema behaviors in 3-6 year age group

                                                                        - Difficulty in managing mixed developmental levels in one setting

                                                                        - Potential disruption to structured activities or other children's play


                                                                        ## Strategies for Supporting Play Schemas

                                                                        1. **Object Permanence Activities**

                                                                        - Hide objects under cups for children to find

                                                                        - Bury toys in sandpit for discovery


                                                                        2. **Sensory Exploration**

                                                                        - Provide opportunities for paint mixing and texture exploration

                                                                        - Create designated areas for messy play


                                                                        3. **Structured vs. Open-Ended Play Spaces**

                                                                        - Set up separate areas for structured activities and free exploration

                                                                        - Use outdoor spaces for messier, more physical play


                                                                        4. **Extending Play Behaviors**

                                                                        - Engage children in their current play level and gradually introduce new concepts

                                                                        - Use children's interests to guide activities


                                                                        5. **Environment Modification**

                                                                        - Adjust play spaces to accommodate different developmental needs

                                                                        - Create safe areas for more physical play schemas


                                                                        ## Tips for Educators and Parents

                                                                        - Focus on improving one play skill at a time

                                                                        - Understand that repetitive behaviors are part of learning

                                                                        - Provide a variety of sensory experiences

                                                                        - Be patient and remember that the brain will learn with repeated exposure


                                                                        ## About the Host

                                                                        Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, speaker, author, and mother of three. She combines her professional expertise with personal experiences to provide valuable insights into child development and play.


                                                                        ## Call to Action

                                                                        - Share your experiences or questions in the comments

                                                                        - Reach out for more ideas and support

                                                                        - Join our free online community for ongoing discussions and resources


                                                                        ## Connect with Play Move Improve

                                                                        - Website: playmoveimprove.com.au

                                                                        - Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn: @playmoveimprove


                                                                        Remember, play schemas are a crucial part of child development. With understanding and the right strategies, we can support children through these important stages while managing the challenges they may present in educational settings.

                                                                        17 min
                                                                      • What is emotional regulation and how can I help my child to regulate their emotions

                                                                        Play Move Improve Podcast: Understanding and Supporting Emotional Regulation


                                                                        Episode Summary

                                                                        In this in-depth episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the importance of emotional regulation in child development. She shares personal insights, scientific information, and practical strategies to help children and adults manage their emotions effectively.

                                                                        1. Emotional regulation is a lifelong skill that starts developing in infancy.
                                                                        2. Early life experiences and attachments significantly impact emotional regulation abilities.
                                                                        3. There are three stages of emotional development from birth to 24 months.
                                                                        4. Recent global events have affected emotional regulation in both children and adults.
                                                                        5. Play and movement can help improve emotional regulation skills.
                                                                          1. Stage 1 (1-6 months): Basic emotional responses and mirroring
                                                                          2. Stage 2 (6-12 months): Development of defiance and shyness
                                                                          3. Stage 3 (12-24 months): More complex emotions like jealousy and shame
                                                                            1. Use descriptive language: "I can see that you're frustrated" or "I can hear that you're upset"
                                                                            2. Modify situations to make them more pleasant or manageable
                                                                            3. Practice shifting attention to more positive aspects
                                                                            4. Create a list of coping strategies (e.g., "When I feel frustrated, I can...")
                                                                            5. Use grounding techniques like barefoot standing or finger breathing
                                                                            6. Implement escape plans for children who struggle with emotional regulation
                                                                            7. Use countdown timers to provide predictability and control
                                                                              1. Play-Doh emotion activity: Use Play-Doh to explore what different emotions look and feel like
                                                                              2. Create a visual "When I feel frustrated, I can..." chart
                                                                              3. Practice finger breathing or other calming techniques


                                                                                4. Robyn shares her own experiences with emotional regulation challenges, providing a unique perspective on the importance of these skills and the impact of early life experiences.


                                                                                Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, speaker, author, and mother of three. She combines her professional expertise with personal experiences to provide valuable insights into child development and emotional regulation.

                                                                                • Try the suggested activities with your family
                                                                                • Reach out to Robyn for more support or resources
                                                                                • Join our free online community for more discussions and content: Play Move Improve Online Community
                                                                                  • Website: playmoveimprove.com.au
                                                                                  • Facebook and Instagram: @playmoveimprove
                                                                                  • Leave a review on iTunes or Spotify


                                                                                    • Remember, emotional regulation is a journey for both children and adults. With understanding and practice, we can all improve our ability to manage our emotions effectively.

                                                                                    33 min

                                                                                  About Play Move Improve

                                                                                  From the publisher's feed

                                                                                  Hey, I'm Robyn from Play Move Improve. I am an Exercise Physiologist, Developmental Educator and Trainer who is passionate about getting more children active and moving each day.