Chapter 19: Motor Development PED 383: Adapted Physical Education Dr. Johnson

Definition  Progressive change in movement behavior throughout the life cycle  Dynamic systems theory  We better understand the PROCESS  Phases of Motor Development  We better understand the PRODUCT

Catagories  Stability  Any movement that places a premium on gaining or maintaining equilibrium in relation to the forces of gravity  Locomotion  Movement that involves a change in location of the body relative to a fixed point on the surface  Manipulation  Gross and fine motor manipulation

Phases of Motor Development  Reflexive Movement Phase  Rudimentary Movement Phase  Fundamental Movement Phase  Specialized Movement Phase

Reflexive Movement Phase  Involuntary, subcortically controlled movements  Start in the womb  Continue through life (this stage until 1 year)  Tables on Pg  Information – encoding  In the womb – 4 months  Involuntary movements  Gather information, nourishment, and protection  Information – decoding  4 months – 1 year  Voluntary control of movements  Developmental Divergence  Complete absence is less concerning than going too long

Rudimentary Movement Phase  Maturationally determined behaviors seen in the normally functioning infant  birth to 2 years  Reflex Inhibition  Birth to 1 year  Movements influenced by the developing cortex  Some reflexes disappear, new reflexes immerge  Movements appear uncoordinated  Precontrol  1-2 years  Gaining control of movements  Rapid gains in cognition and movement  Developmental Divergence  CNS disorders can hinder motor development  Sensory impairments can also highly impact development

Fundamental Movement Phase  Basic movement skills that are building blocks for more development and refined movement skills  2-7 years  Initial  2-3 years  Improper sequences or missing parts  Poor coordination  Elementary  4-5 years  Better control and rhythm  Mature  6-7 years  Mechanically efficient and coordinated / controlled  Developmental Divergence  Wider gaps  Focus on outcome, not so much the steps

Specialized Movement Phase  Movement skills become used for a purpose, instead of fun. (ie. Sports or recreation)  years  Transitional  7-10 years  Greater form and accuracy  Combinations of skills  Application  years  Conscious decisions about participation  Lifelong Utilization  14+ years  Picking what they like to do, or are good at  Developmental Divergence  Health benefits as adults  Occupational or recreational