Physical development involves providing opportunities for young children to be active and interactive; and to develop their co-ordination, control, and movement. Children must also be helped to understand the importance of physical activity, and to make healthy choices in relation to food.

Aspects of Physical Development

Physical Development is made up of the following aspects: Movement and Space – is about how children learn to move with confidence, imagination and safety, with an awareness of space, themselves and others. Health and Bodily Awareness – is about how children learn the importance of keeping healthy and the factors that contribute to maintaining their health. Using Equipment and Materials – is about the ways in which children use a range of small and large equipment.

What Physical Development means for children

• Babies and children learn by being active and Physical Development takes place across all areas of Learning and Development.

• Physical Development helps children gain confidence in what they can do.

• Physical Development enables children to feel the positive benefits of being healthy and active.

• Physical Development helps children to develop a positive sense of well-being.

• Good health in the early years helps to safeguard health and well-being throughout life. It is important that children develop healthy habits when they first learn about food and activity. Growing with appropriate weight gain in the first years of life helps to guard against obesity in later life.

How we support this area of the EYFS

• Encouraging children by positive praise adn appropriate guidance when taking part in physical activities

• Fostering children's confidence and helping them take controlled risks in their physical play

• Observing and talking about instinctive movements such as balance

• Taking time and apportunity to support children's understanding of the impact of exercise, healty eating hygiene and sleep on one's health

• Providing a safe and well-resourced environment in which to explore all aspects of this section of the EYFS.

• Well trained staff to assist and encourage safe play and increased independence in physical activities.

• Provision time, opportunities and appropriate adult support for children with physical disabilities or motor impairments to develop their physical skills, working in partnership with relevant specialists such as physiotherapists and occupational therapists.