Mr. Licato at the Park

Climbing and pulling up are some of the most popular activities at the park.  This kind of play increases strength in children's grip, preparing their hands to move from scribbling to controlled drawing and writing.  It also strengthens their core muscles. Strong core muscles help children maintain stamina and focus at school.

Mr. Licato is Mustard Seed School's physical education teacher and he has begun spending two park sessions a week with the preschool children.  Mr. Licato will work with children as they play, designing games that target the gross motor skills that children are developing in these early years.

Right now, the children are invited to pull up on a low bar and give Mr. Licato a "High Five" with their feet. 

In terms of gross motor development, a child for whom movement comes easily will move more and more, increasing competence and physical coordination naturally.  Those who struggle more to be in control of their bodies naturally avoid these activities and miss opportunities for growth.  Having Mr. Licato present to invite everyone into these gross motor challenges will help all children to move forward in this area of development.  

Mr. Licato's pull-up game is very popular.  Children all want to have a turn and we have noticed a line beginning to form.  The children seem to feel proud of their success and like to show how strong they are. 

We are so glad to have Mr. Licato join the preschool team.