Queen Anne & Magnolia News – Nate Clem
“Can you close your eyes and touch your nose? Can you stand on one foot? Balance is very important and is something that we often take for granted. The sensory system is the primary system that sets the foundation for higher brain centers to grow upon. We are all very familiar with the five basic senses: touch, taste, seeing, hearing and smell. It is through these basic pathways that babies create neurological connections and their perception of life outside of the womb. Two equally important sensory systems, which aren’t as commonly recognized, begin to take on a dominant role as babies begin to coordinate movements and have greater interactions with the world. These two systems are known as the proprioceptive system and the vestibular system…Proprioceptive input is important for a child’s development because it helps them to feel a sense of self, aids in self-regulation and promotes success in both fine motor and gross motor activities…Children need a daily dose of “brain food,” such as running, skipping, jumping, climbing, swinging and crawling. In addition, children need activities that involve movement of both sides of the body. When they are young, expose them to a variety of different textures, especially on their hands, feet and face. Get them moving and let them be kids, and while you are at it you might want to join in!”(more)