Build the body-brain connection with step-by-step activities that help children develop physical, cognitive, social, and emotional foundations for early learning and school readiness. Early childhood educators will find clear information on creating the move-to learn environment, managing safety, and optimizing the connections between language development, movement, and readiness for formal learning. An observational tool lets teachers pinpoint children's specific developmental stages and assess progress. The easy-to-follow, full-color format includes diagrams and photos along with teaching tips to advance and automate children's foundational physical capabilities while providing incremental challenge. Grounded in best practices and current research, Move, Play, and Learn with Smart Steps is both a hands-on resource for any classroom teacher, care provider, or parent and an ideal tool for coaches, mentors, and professional development trainers. Digital content includes customizable forms from the book.
"A wonderfully clear step-by-step activity series providing children with a 'rich diet' of movement and play. The very easy-to-understand-and-do series of everyday activities builds the critical body and brain interrelationship, essential for children's optimal learning and transition into school. This outstanding book sets a new benchmark in children's activity programs to develop their bodies an
Graham D. Dodd, Ph.D., Founder and Chair TriSkills Australia; Fellow & Life Member Austral
"A gold mine! This well thought out and organized resource explains the stages of childhood motor development in concise language and clear graphics, making it accessible and understandable to parents and professionals alike. Smart Steps offers a multitude of activity ideas and includes fun and creative modifications for kids of all ages and abilities. I recommend this book to parents, teachers, a
Brenda Richards, OTR/L, pediatric occupational therapist, author, co-owner of The Center f
"A must-have resource for all those engaged and involved in the lives of young children in whatever capacity. A uniquely refreshing combination of practical know-how and underpinning knowledge, bound by a profound belief and understanding of the role movement plays in supporting overall development. Easily accessible for parents--there are wonderful ideas for promoting active play-this book also p
