Core Strength:
Core strength is the development of the torso muscles that stabilize, align, and move the trunk of the body. Poor core strength can cause poor posture which can also affect gross motor and fine motor skills. Building strong core strength is like building a strong foundation for children.
Core strength development starts as an infant with ‘tummy time.’
When an infant has an opportunity to lie on his/ her tummy, she/he learns to lift their head which helps to strengthen the neck and upper back muscles. This will help the infant to begin supporting the weight of their own head and to be able to look around in response to sounds. It will also prepare the infant for such developmental milestones such as crawling, rolling over, and sitting up independently.
Some children will not have this core strength when they arrive at Primary School.
For Primary School aged children, the best way to develop core strength is through good old fashioned outdoor play! Children need daily opportunities to run, jump, climb, crawl and explore in an unstructured environment.
Children with poor core strength will tend to slump with shoulders rolled forward while seated, they may exhibit poor balance and find it difficult to sit on a chair.
This will also lead to poor fine motor skills, poor concentration and tiredness.
Physical-Development-at-CCIS-July-2023.pdf
